Art and Poetry by Barbara A. Carlan

2011-05-07T15:56:00.000-07:00

"Other things may change us, but we start and end with family" Anthony Brandt

"Wearied Warriors"

2011-04-14T14:05:00.000-07:00

Hearts tendered from the ticks of time,

will comfort know in hands of thine.

Relief and healing from Gileads balm,

speaks to sorrow and brings them calm.

Like chattle herded in darkest night,

the wearied warriors give up their fight.

To live for self and face certain doom,

or allow His light to displace the gloom.

Each day will bring it's harvest sweet,

until in Heaven, they all shall meet.

For in their place around His throne,

they'll worship God in Christ alone!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 12/08/10

"The Visit"

2011-04-14T08:50:00.000-07:00

It had been so many years, I couldn't remember the last date my mother visited my home. I was so excited to have her come and spend a long awaited week with me. Mother didn't drive so we had to plan well in advance to have my brother and his then girlfriend make the drive to meet me at the "Cracker Barrel" restaurant in Montgomery, Alabama. It was a convenient place to meet just off I 85 where we could stretch our legs, empty our bladder and eat a quick bite, before we returned to our car for the three hour drive back to my home in northeast Georgia. I

was very excited to have mother come for a visit, as much had changed for me since her last trip to my home. I had remarried a wonderful man after a very long difficult marriage to an alcoholic. Her last visit had been an unpleasant one and I was anxious for her to see that life had improved for me, that I was happy and doing well. My mother was well into her late seventies by then and it was obvious her health was beginning to fail and she might not be with us to many more years. I had brought my husbands mother along for the ride to Montgomery that day, as company seem to make the drive bearable and the time fly. Conversations have a way of distracting us, so much so that we missed an important exit on the interstate to Montgomery and found ourselves headed to Columbus instead. Even still we managed to somehow meet my brother in time to pick mother up at our prearranged meeting place. After eating a quick lunch, we soon found ourselves back in the car making the long three hour drive back to home. I remember very little about conversations in the car that day. With three women talking, I'm sure we conversed about family mostly, just trying to catch up on all the latest news of what everyone else was doing. Something in me said savor the moments Barbara, hang on to mother's every word for the years are fast slipping away! I'd made a few plans for us that week, shopping at some favorite stores, cooking a few special dishes, but mostly I was looking forward to quality time with mother, something I hadn't done in a long time. Mother had five children. She tried through the years to remain closely connected to each of us but once we married, left home it wasn't so easy to do, because she didn't drive. Mothered tried and we did too as the years pressed on and circumstances

allowed. Mother had lived in Atlanta in the mid 1950's, she was in the prime of life and our family was young. Back then my daddy was stationed at Ft. McPherson in the Army. I wondered what mother was thinking, as we drove thru the "Grady Curve"on I 85 north in downtown Atlanta. The city had undergone many changes in the years since 1955. The car was eerily quiet as we made it through some of the worst traffic congestion of the trip home that day. Before long, you once again heard the soft buzz of female conversation flowing in the car as the tension from

the drive started to ease. I hated the traffic in the city and avoided driving in it at all cost, but this trip was different. I was willing to endure the pain to have that special time with mother after so many years. Our first stop as we neared home would be to let Sylvia (David's mom) off at her house. Then do the necessary thank-you's for her company on the drive to Montgomery to pick up my mother. David's mom is a special lady and wonderful mother in law. I couldn't be more blessed to have her and David's dad in my life. When the Lord placed me in this family, he gave me another set of wonderful generous parent's, who never say nay when you need them. Who they are and what their about is a story I'll save for another time. David's family has embraced me like none ever have or ever will I suspect. Their love has touched me in the most profound ways. I began to feel greater excitement as we left Sylvia safely at her front doorsteps and said our good bye's. Mother was now seated in the front seat, close to me and just like a small child she was taking in all the new visual vista's that were leading to her second daughter's home. As mother aged it was easy to see her childlike vulnerabilities. The area of north Georgia

my home was located in was new to mother. Her last visit with me, she'd found me living in small one room cedar cabin. The cabin was located a mile and half up a badly rutted dirt road in the mountains further north. The setting was lovely and picturesque, but the cabin was so isolated, without phone or means to stay connected with the outside world the way she'd been accustomed to having. The years with my exhusband were troubling times and I'm certain mother sensed the burden I was carrying then, but she never interfered in any of her children's lives. Even though she may have disagreed with many of our choices, she was always supportive and warm to anyone we brought along with us in life. I think she knew early on this marriage

was going to be bad ride for me. I remember many tearful phone calls when mother with her words would shore up the crumblings walls of discouragement for me. She never failed to show love and compassion, even in the worst of times to me. Her visit to my mountain cabin was something I'd needed, as it help to reconnect me with family and served as a reminder that I was still loved and not alone as I was starting to feel in this world. The better part of twenty years had gone by since her visit to the mountain home and so much had changed for me thankfully. I was living in a new town, with a new husband and enjoyed being on the threshold of a new life. David purchased us a home in suburbia, a small quaint ranch, situated in cul de sac on the outskirts of midtown Atlanta. We were living in the same town he'd been born and raised in and lived all of his adult life. I was happy, content finally and living a peaceful life. God was in the process of restoring me and I was excited to share my blessings with mother. Mother was pretty quiet as we approached the driveway of my home. I wondered if she was thinking how different it was from the last time she'd visited. She'd already met David, so she knew what a kind gentle spirit he was. She'd already come to love him as her new son in law. By now she could see the american flag hanging on the garage door frame, waving in the warm summer breeze. Almost as if to welcome her for the last visit to her daughter's home. As we entered the house through the garage door, we walked into the kitchen. I sensed mother's eye's roving as she began to take in her surroundings. Everything she saw was sparkling clean, just the way mother liked it. She was greeted with the smell of spring flowers filling the air. A little carpet fresh in kitchen trash container can do wonders, permeating the entire house with the smell fresh spring flowers. Mother began to ooh and awe as she made her way thru the kitchen to the living room, She then walked into the front foyer and dining room area where she let out a big sigh. Mother loved pretty things and through the year's trying to raise her family, she'd learned to make do with what she had and be quite creative. Our home growing up was always clean and very well ordered. In her last years going to garage sale was her favorite pastime. With simply a few dollars in hand she could discover a world of new treasures to decorate her home with. She and dad loved going to yard sales and in their final years it was that fun thing they could do together. As mother took in her surroundings she began to comment on the various things she saw decorating my home. Somethings mother had given me through the years from her many yard sale treasure hunts. But most were trinkets and furnishings I'd collected through my own journey in life. I'm a keeper of things I like, and I'm especially fond of finding things that can be repurposed. As we entered the dining room my mother's eyes became large and wide, almost as if she'd found the room she loved the most. I'll never forget what she said to me that day. Her words sure and deeply sincere, "Barbara your home is beautiful, just like the picture's you see in one of those fancy magazine." I had to hold back tears at hearing my mother praise me but

instead I just smiled and said, "Thank you Mama!" I then reached over to give her a big hug around the neck and said, "Mother, do you know how I learned to create this lovely home?"

She shook her head no, as though she were unsure how I could have learned to decorate and keep a home so well. At that moment I looked deep into my mother's eye's and said,"From you Mama, from you!"

"Somewhere Weeping"

2011-04-05T13:01:00.000-07:00

In iniquitous nights,

as the worlds lay sleeping

Their are cries of children

who are somewhere weeping

Hollowed eye's of fear

as hunger speaks their name.

Not a room for shelter

or cloaks to hide their shame

Little tear's pool in mud

whereon the earth they lay

As they lament in silence

will the morrow bring play.

Their tiny bellies distended

from the famine of bread

And their bodies too weak

to uphold their heads

Where's the shame for hunger

that so many children know

Who now weep in the gallows

and walk about with no clothes?

Written By: Barbara A Carlan 12/17/10

"Absent"

2011-04-04T10:12:00.000-07:00

Your all too familiar absence in my life tells me everyday how you really think and feel about me. Your few carefully chosen words in the scarce minutes we do speak, do little to soothe the painful loss of having been denied what was truly important to me. Like time with you, your children and the creating of our own album of memories. I never saw this coming sadly, as everyday was spent in believing that somehow tomorrow would be better and we would eventually pick up where we last left off. Strange how time gets away from us, yet even more strange to me is how we humans can be so cruel to each other. I sit as a spectator to your life, only given occasional glimpses like a kid with his nose pressed to the glass of his favorite doughnut shop. Every now and then someone notices the child peering through the window, drooling over the tasty treats and decides to bring him one of what didn't sell during the morning rush hour. You know the leftovers, something they didn't want anyway, so why not give it to the kid staring through the glass. Yes, that's what you give me the leftovers! Nothing planned or carefully anticipated but the few scraps of time remaining after you've gone on your vacations to the beach, casino's, or trips to see admired friends or distant family. A thousand times I've said I will not let this hurt me anymore, yet still there are tears that remain. My concern is one day the tears will eventually stop revealing to me an even worse truth than the one's I already know. You see, the one thing I fear most should the well of my own tears cease to flow is I will have become like you and stopped caring anymore. I guess I've spent the whole of life trying to fix and repair things like broken vases, scratched furniture and torn blue jeans. Some tangible things can be mended and salvaged in ways that few would even notice, but not so with most human relationships. There aren't many willing to do the hard work necessary to give life back to them. Especially if it requires they must own their part in how the relationship became fractured to begin with. I'm thinking maybe it's time to bury these dead corpses and get on with living what remains of life because there isn't much time left for me in this world. This much I do know, only Jesus Christ can raise the dead and give life to it again. If you intended to hurt me, you can rest assured you have~

""My Flannel Bag"" by franticflagwave [5940786-1] - RedBubble

2010-09-20T04:40:00.000-07:00

""My Flannel Bag"" by franticflagwave [5940786-1] - RedBubble

Facebook | Barbara Howald Carlan: 'Out Of The Darkness And Into The Light"

2010-07-29T06:34:00.000-07:00

Facebook Barbara Howald Carlan: 'Out Of The Darkness And Into The Light"

""American Family Proverbs"" by franticflagwave [5494696-1] - RedBubble

2010-07-05T13:51:00.001-07:00

""American Family Proverbs"" by franticflagwave [5494696-1] - RedBubble

""Dreams Of The Children"" by franticflagwave [5478993-1] - RedBubble

2010-07-03T12:41:00.000-07:00

""Dreams Of The Children"" by franticflagwave [5478993-1] - RedBubble

'The Beautiful Magnolia In Spring"

2010-05-15T09:12:00.000-07:00

Nothing says spring in the south like the Magnolia blossoms!

""A Room With Her Name"" by franticflagwave [5080940-1] - RedBubble

2010-04-27T16:06:00.000-07:00

""A Room With Her Name"" by franticflagwave [5080940-1] - RedBubble

"By Love Pursued"

2010-04-22T14:52:00.000-07:00

By love pursued

in darkened gloom.

To taste the sweet,

of Heaven's treat.

To dance in light,

throughout the night.

For love has come,

to such a one!

Written By: Barbara A Carlan 3/25/2010

"Love Is A Cupcake"

2010-02-18T10:28:00.000-08:00

This picture is one of several in a series that I recently photographed for "Valentines Day." It's title certainly doesn't classify it as purely for "V" Day but hearts of any kind always seem to focus our attention on that particular holiday I think. What is it about human nature that we sometimes need a little push to do random acts of kindness for others. Marketers know that about us, hence the reason for friends day, teachers day, etc. Retailers bank on these manufactured holidays to boost their sales and take up the slack between our yearly Christmas season. I don't know about you but, often it's the unexpected things that others do on my behalf that really touches me. You know, I'm convinced it isn't always about the gift or it's cost, but it's the idea of having someone extract a little portion of their time to find ways to brighten my day a little that touch me the most profoundly. I have to admit on the few occasions in life when I've had the privledge of receiving a random act of kindness, it has really made my day. Perhaps if your reading this you may know someone who could use a little sunshine on this cold day in Feburary. Most of us are feeling the blues of a long cold winter and long for the warmer days of spring by now. Why not bake a pan of brownies or a tray of chocolate chip cookies to deliver to their front door steps to say I thought of you today. Beside having the oven on will help to warm up the house a little while filling your home with a pleasant aroma of freshly baked treats. If time is an issue because of a busy schedule, there is always the local bakery to pick out some delectible goodies. Another idea is to give a hand written note of appreciation, something most of us don't receive anymore because of email, telling them how much you love and appreciate them in your life. You'll be amazed at the wonders it can do for the lonely or isolated. Why not make a promise to yourself for the upcoming months of the year of 2010 to try and do at least one random act of kindness for those special people in your life at least once a month. Come on now, how hard can that really be. Besides, I have the feeling that you'll be more blessed in the giving, than they are in the receiving!!! Just thinking out loud....................Barbara

""I Heard Him Call Out My Name"" by franticflagwave [4672333-1] - RedBubble

2010-02-18T04:44:00.000-08:00

""I Heard Him Call Out My Name"" by franticflagwave [4672333-1] - RedBubble

""Love Is" A "Happy Valentines Day"" by franticflagwave [4652755-1] - RedBubble

2010-02-14T07:01:00.000-08:00

""Love Is" A "Happy Valentines Day"" by franticflagwave [4652755-1] - RedBubble

"Happy Valentines Day"

2010-02-10T07:16:00.000-08:00

"By Love serve ye one another" Galatians 5:13c

""The Bay Of Morgan"" by franticflagwave [4569239-1] - RedBubble

2010-02-05T10:46:00.000-08:00

""The Bay Of Morgan"" by franticflagwave [4569239-1] - RedBubble

""Tea And Scripture"" Fine Art Print by franticflagwave [4462169-1] - RedBubble

2010-01-11T16:47:00.000-08:00

""Tea And Scripture"" Fine Art Print by franticflagwave [4462169-1] - RedBubble

""Mama Once Told Her"" by franticflagwave [4385396-1] - RedBubble

2009-12-29T15:55:00.000-08:00

""Mama Once Told Her"" by franticflagwave [4385396-1] - RedBubble

""Love Planted A Garden"" by franticflagwave [4382982-1] - RedBubble

2009-12-29T07:41:00.000-08:00

""Love Planted A Garden"" by franticflagwave [4382982-1] - RedBubble

""A Bride In Waiting"" in Journal - franticflagwave - RedBubble

2009-12-24T07:05:00.000-08:00

""A Bride In Waiting"" in Journal - franticflagwave - RedBubble

""Freedom Lies Silent"" by franticflagwave [4343215-1] - RedBubble

2009-12-22T12:16:00.000-08:00

""Freedom Lies Silent"" by franticflagwave [4343215-1] - RedBubble

""A Grandmother's Gift"" Fine Art Print by franticflagwave [4302775-1] - RedBubble

2009-12-13T07:24:00.000-08:00

""A Grandmother's Gift"" Fine Art Print by franticflagwave [4302775-1] - RedBubble

""A Christmas Memory"" in Journal - franticflagwave - RedBubble

2009-12-11T04:58:00.000-08:00

""A Christmas Memory"" in Journal - franticflagwave - RedBubble

"A Working Man's Christmas"

2009-12-07T16:48:00.000-08:00

Present's won't be placed, underneath our family tree,

cause the government stole my income, all away from me.

Seems they've raised my taxes, even without my consent,

just to splurge for fancy dinners, for our new president.

Our family will have to learn, how to get along with less,

cause the bills have each come due and no works to be had.

It seems my days of plenty, has gone the way of the dust,

just like my hard earned savings, and that rusty old truck.

Charties call my house, wanting more in their donations,

as I mumble in responce, I could use a long staycation.

I show up on my job, hoping works gonna come my way,

and stand around for hours, making thirty hours pay.

This year there ain't no Santa, dressed in his fancy suit,

no room to park his sleigh, just to ruin my brand new roof.

I still owe Santa money, for toys he left here years ago,

interest on my credit cards, soared where, nobody knows?

So Santa stay away, cause all you ever want is monies,

kids don't need more stuff around here, to fight over in the evenings.

Mom and me decide, it was time to make some changes,

bring back a Christmas story, about a babe within a manger.

Present's won't be needed, beneath our Christmas tree,

instead you'll find our Bible and a tiny manger scene.

We'll gather all our kid's around and read the greatest story,

of how the Father's shown his love, by sending earth His glory!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 11/26/2009

"A Christmas Story"

2009-12-06T06:53:00.000-08:00

In the long halls of the ages,

all the prophets foretold.

Of that babe in a manger,

who'd deliver men's souls.

Since the fall in the garden,

men enslaved to their sin.

Hoped for a lasting deliverer,

from sins battles within.

Then at last in the chill,

of the coldest of nights.

Came a star of Bethlehem,

the one lauded as Christ.

A King came to the earth,

wrapped in the guise of a babe.

His life concieved in the womb,

of the humble mother God gave.

Redemption's journey began,

on that dark December's night.

Resting still in the stables,

where his parents took flight.

For it was just the beginning,

for this illustrious King.

You see salvations calling,

required blood to be redeemed.

When you celebrate this Christmas,

and gather still beneath the tree.

Don't forget the Christmas story,

with it's message for you and me.

Christ came to settle the ransome,

for transgressions we have made.

The grandest story ever told,

was He's alive that Easter Day!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 11/19/2009

"My Best Friend"

2009-12-05T15:34:00.000-08:00

When just a kid, a child of eight,

an older sister, best friend I'd make.

I hoped to grow, and be the same,

to have her hair and bear her fame.

If by chance, she bore new shoes,

I'd beg in hopes, to have them too.

It seems she always, had the best,

and I was there to glean what's left.

Then in teens, not much had change,

except that she, got more new things.

I heard my dad say, she's the best,

while I wonder why, I'm such a mess.

Then in the years, when children came,

I still wanted to do, and be the same.

Dreams of hers, just seem to happen,

I tried my best, to make mine like them.

Advanced in age, not much has changed,

she lives her hopes, and steals my dreams.

She walks in worlds, I'd hoped to see,

while I stand in place, to watch her glee.

Of late I'm thinking, Lord what's the use,

to be like her, is a strangled noose.

The friend I need, is one who's favor,

is fair and just, prone none to waver.

That friend of youth can be no more,

time for less of me, and no keeping score.

So when in my mirror, I should look to see,

much more of Jesus, and much less of me!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 12/6/2009

"Sleep Well"

2009-10-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

I can hear all the voices, of our children at play,

as they skip in the winds, of a cool autumn day.

Headed for homes, with their best of friends,

they haven't a care, as their school day has end.

Their minds still so tender, and free of life's cares,

as they sing to the music, of the songs that they hear.

Children laughing and playing as they scurry along,

to their places of shelter, where they're free of harm.

In the voices I hear, there's one now who's missing,

in it's place only quiet, where once there was dancing.

For the voice of a child, full of life and it's dream's,

has been silenced in sleep, far to soon as it seems.

I dream of a place, where every child can play,

dancing in green fields, of safer worlds than today.

Where the fear of harm, is never on their young mind,

and the dangers we know, will be erased for all time.

Sleep well every little one, who has left us too soon,

wear stars in your crown, as you dance on the moon.

Lay safe in the shelter, of the one, who gave you to us,

where you rest, are the angels, and a God you can trust!

Written By : Barbara A. Carlan 10/23/2009

I suppose nothing has touched me more than the recent headlines of a young girls life being taken too soon at the hands of an evil predator. This little girls life was precious in the sight of the Lord. Somer Renee Thompson belonged to all of us as Americans. She is every mother's daughter, every father's little girl and every grandparent's grandchild. Her story has touched me so profoundly that I felt compelled to write a poem in her memory. May you rest in peace little Somer Renee Thompson and may your family know the conforting arms of Christ love, in your abscence!

In His Love,

Barbara A. Carlan

"Bridges"

2009-10-19T10:11:00.000-07:00

Rather than mend, what we've power to change,

we can live in denial, and look for others to blame.

Chasing rainbows like gold, in search of our dreams,

while we travel to places, that we've never seen.

In our new destinations, we will eventually find,

that the problems, we knew, came along for the ride.

For our troubles in life, aren't without as it seems,

for they lurk in the shadows, of the lives that we glean.

In time we discover, in our search for life's meaning,

relationships hoped, were always there for the keeping.

They would never be found, by always running away,

but by mending the bridges, we destroy in each day.

Saying I'm sorry, when we've hurt those we love,

when we're willing to start, where we've left off before.

Joy's not always found, in discovering new places,

but in denying one's self, to put smiles on those faces.

Of the people in life, that still share in our journey,

loved ones we have, and our friends without money.

Those broken down bridges, of our relationships lost,

might have been salvaged, had we just paid the cost!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 10/18/2009

"Autumn's Dancers"

2009-10-13T06:49:00.000-07:00

The cooling temps, of the mornings haze,

reminds creation that fall's in place.

Gentle breezes break loose their holds,

as the leaves begin, their dance of old.

This dance of nature, in bejeweled colors,

performed by limbs, of leaves that flutter.

The rhythmic gait, of their dying members,

delights spectator's, thru late November.

The delicate leaves, of autumn's dancers,

reminds all nature, that winter slumbers.

As though by rote, they narrate their scores,

to show in death, there's beauty more.

The jeweled dancers, red, orange, and gold,

show forth their splendor, like days of old.

Earth's shortened days, of September's sun,

blow sweet smells of embers, by mornings dawn.

This swirling dance of the autumn's dancers,

broadcast the lingering, cold nights of winter.

Declaring the harvest, for earth's work is done,

as sod must rest, till it's spring has sprung!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 10/12/2009

""It's A Rainy Day in Georgia"" in Journal - franticflagwave - RedBubble

2009-10-12T08:37:00.000-07:00

""It's A Rainy Day in Georgia"" in Journal - franticflagwave - RedBubble

"Tears" A Language

2009-10-09T06:44:00.000-07:00

The silent language, of broken hearts,

is soaked in tears, right from the start.

Most often heard, by Heavens throne,

from rooms of darkness, before the dawn.

From anguished sorrow, tears river flow,

to quell each fear, and loose their hold.

The moistened speech, of early morn,

cries for relief, from earths sorrows born.

In Heavens realm, each tear is coddled,

then carefully placed, in crystal bottles.

God has purposed, each tear a treasure,

meant for his keeping, and for his pleasure.

Now in the silence, of days earliest morn,

should tearful waters, chance their flow.

Each tear the contrite heart must speak,

our God above, wipes from each cheek.

No tears are lost, nor goes unnoticed,

and must be used, just as He purposed.

He's chanced the laborious tears of sorrow,

to mend our wounds for Heavens morrow!

Written by: Barbara A. Carlan 10/9/2009

"He's harvest each, for vessels treasured, suplussing flows, for Heavens rivers"

Promote Your RedBubble Profile

2009-10-05T09:55:00.000-07:00

Promote Your RedBubble Profile

"Thought's Of A Homemaker"

2009-10-05T06:16:00.000-07:00

The photo is representative of the life of women several generations ago. I remember when a woman would spend the entire day just doing laundry. Today women have a much different experience. The poem below is a brief glimps into our modren homemakers world, the only thing missing is the possibilities of a holding a job too. It's a playful take on the role of women in today's world, I hope you enjoy!

The weatherman says it's raining today,

my hair is a mess and I've nothing to wear.

The house is dirty and it needs to be cleaned,

now where did I place that vaccum machine?

Time to change all the sheets and strip the beds,

take down every cobweb above my head.

Wash all the laundry and empty the trash,

run to the market, then mow all the grass.

Somewhere inbetween, make plans for our dinner,

then run to the Mall to get junior his swimmer.

Running from here, to who really knows where,

oh my, I forgot to brush out my hair!

Time to pull the weeds, from my best flower beds,

pour them a drink, so they don't end up dead.

Take the dog for a walk, just so he can poop,

with a napkin in hand and maybe a scoop.

It seems everyday, there is so much to do,

without anytime, just to buy me new shoes.

What is this craziness, I live everyday,

will I ever find moments, for me just to play.

I dream of long baths with bubbles in ears,

and soap in my eyes, that cause them to tear.

A nap in the shade of the afternoon sun,

with time to reflect on my life over lunch.

The weatherman says that it's raining today,

the house still a mess and I've nothing to wear.

The floors are all dirty and need to be cleaned,

now where did I hide that vaccum machine?

Barbara A. Carlan 6/17/2009

Promote Your RedBubble Profile

2009-10-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

Promote Your RedBubble Profile

"My Mothers Voice"

2009-09-25T12:02:00.000-07:00

I first heard her sonant, in my conception of days,

where the womb held me silent, suspended in space.

The sound of her music, gave a comfort from fears,

while the angels in glory, wiped away every tear.

I remember her voice, from my earliest of days,

as we sat in the shade of the Live Oaks that swayed.

Sounds of her instrument, made me always feel sure,

when worlds that I knew, were so cold and disturbed.

Her voice seemed so flawless, like angelics of old,

she taught me her sonants, like her mother before.

This world not the same, as worlds once were in time,

for the sounds of her music, will not again meet with mine.

If I know some remorse, from this life that I've lived,

it's I never did tell her what her instrument did.

How the sound of her voice, was so wonderfully loved,

by her children of springtime, as we walked in her world.

Barbara A. Carlan 6/4/2009

"A Place"

2009-09-18T14:41:00.000-07:00

A place to rest when day is done,

from gaurded watch within this home.

A faithful friend I determined to be,

as I took my place at my masters knee.

Those years I spent within this home,

joy I gave with the love they've shown.

Made our world a much sweeter place,

as I gave good love to my masters face.

Like the soldier who has stood his watch,

I've taken my place here beneath this rock.

To rest and sleep now my works all done,

to dream of trails we together roamed!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 9/2009

"Another's Story"

2009-09-09T15:49:00.000-07:00

Endless curbing on concrete catwalks,

line the roads of busy towns of small talk.

Miles of asphalt creep thru grassy knolls,

where once anothers story was told.

Of dirt road traffick by horses driven,

and country people were simply living.

Tilling their crops, sown in early spring,

ending their labors, on a front porch swing.

Families gathered near, from exhausted joy,

to share the rewards, of the lives they sowed.

The setting of sun greets the evening damp,

as the early heavens produce galatic romp.

Children stilled listening to grand dads tales,

how once from the homeland on a ship he sailed.

How he traveled months on a merchants vessel,

to come to the new world to work and settle.

How he dreamed of land where he'd build a home,

then herd some cattle and allow them roam.

Then he'd find him a wife and sire them son's,

and work with his hands till the setting sun.

Where once was the homeplace now a parking lot,

and where the barn once stood all the peoples shop.

The pasture land where horse and cattle roamed,

now subdivision filled with cookie cutter homes.

Endless curbing flanked by concrete sidewalks,

lines the pavement of busy towns of small talk.

Miles of asphalt stretch through grassy knolls

where once another's stories were told!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 8/27/2009

"The Church"

2009-09-01T17:54:00.000-07:00

"Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant. Make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever." Hebrews 13: 21-22

"A Brand New Day"

2009-08-10T15:24:00.000-07:00

From this day on until eternity

His love for you will never cease

And should the earth return to dust

His words you can forever trust

Should the oceans loose it's tide

and all it's life completely die

I know the God who made it all

will once again restore it's fall

Our God above has set the times

for what we see to live or die

He knows the sparrows every flight

and will restore the darkest night

He set the stars in heavens crown

and placed the planets to surround

Then fixed the earth to stand in space

for man to manage and have his place

One day this earth will pass away

for God will make a brand new day

On that new day he'll complete his plan

to restore creation as it once began

A sinless world where Jesus light

will fill it's city both day and night

Where angels sing the endless praise

for Heavens Lamb, who's life was slain

A new Jerusalem where rivers flow

and saints will tread on streets of gold

Thru gates of pearl Christ takes his bride

to dwell in peace in Heavens Light!

Written By Barbara A. Carlan 8/10/2009

"Nothing But The Blood"

2009-07-31T07:35:00.000-07:00

"How much more shall the blood of Christ, who through the eternal Spirit offered himself without spot to God, purge your conscience from dead works to serve the living God?"

Hebrews 9:14

"Laying Up Treasure"

2009-07-26T06:54:00.000-07:00

"For where your treasue is there will your heart be also" Matt.6:21

Today more than ever, we're able to aquire more than an abundance of things or stuff, because of easy credit. Our economy is dependant on consumer spending, so most of us have followed suit and tried to do our part in shoring up the walls of our ailing capitalistic system. Most, if not all of us, have our closets, attics and garages crammed full of things we've garnered over the last thirty years or more. Some things are perhaps valued family heirlooms or just memorabilia from our vast experiences and travels through the years. I know in my own case, much of what I have stored lacks any real value to me or will garner more than a few dollars in a yard sale. Growing up as a child, we were taught that if you didn't have the money in hand you couldn't buy. Somewhere through the years we've been seduced into believing we could buy now and pay later and buy we did! The current economic crisis in America has brought to light a new and disconcerting concern to me. Many are comparing this recession to that of the mid seventies. I remember the long lines at the gas pumps and the slow employment market. The recession of the mid seventies is the reason our family sold our home and relocated to the south. The sale of our home was enough to pay off the mortage and the note on our new 1978 Oldsmobile Cutless Wagon. The balance sufficently cleared all our debt and put a down payment on new residence in the state we were moving to and we began again to try and build the American dream. The present recession is much different. Many Americans are carrying more debt than ever in the history of our nation. Sadly for most, the level of their indebtedness makes the likelyhood of financial liberty appear nearly impossible. This country was built on the hopes that common men could work with their hands and build a life of substance for their families. Many of the people who settled and developed this country were Europeans who were offered freedom from debtors prisons if they were willing to leave their homeland and help in the development of America. It's took a little over two centuies to once again enslave the masses through financial bondage! They say, "if we fail to learn the lessons that history has taught us we are destined to repeat them. "Slowly our liberties have been eroded though our own desires to aquire physical treasure, enslaving ourselves and future generations to follow in the chains of financial bondage! How could we have let this happen? Most of us have been taught history! What once was deemed the ,"American Dream" has developed into an "Amercan Financial Nightmare." My concern as a Christ follower is, have we believers also been seduced by the world and sacrificed spiritual wealth for following after the dainties of living in a prosporous society? We cannot excuse ourselves, for God in his word forwarned us!

Psalm 149: 4

2009-07-21T06:21:00.000-07:00

"For the Lord taketh pleasure in His people: He will beautify the meek with salvation."

"Freed By His Grace"

2009-07-17T14:54:00.000-07:00

Freed by His grace to stand before Holy,

delivered from sin to worship Him soley.

Quickened from death, to live as I should,

He payed my sin debt because I never could.

God in His mercy, lead me to repentance,

granting my pardon, in forms of deliverance.

From a life plagued by sin, filled with delusions,

seized from hells tortures and empty seclusions.

Freed by His grace to dance in His prescence,

filled with His Spirit to bask in the fragrance.

Of the One who was chosen in eternities past,

To stand in my place before I ever asked.

Never in time has there been so much love,

displayed by One who'd come down from above.

To ransome men's souls from the judgements to come,

on a world set in darkness, by deeds that it's done.

Freed by His grace to stand before Holy,

set free from my sins to worship Him soley.

Sealed by His Spirit for eternities offing,

as we wait here below to hear Jesus is coming!

Barbara A. Carlan 7/7/2009

"In His Presence"

2009-07-13T05:32:00.000-07:00

When we're facing life's complexities,

we must trust God for the things we need.

When the roads not clear, as we look ahead,

we shouldn't look down but above instead.

When we think our fears, have the best of us,

we can never give up, but in God should trust.

For none of us knows what the morrow may bring,

for just after winter comes the early spring.

Just as the moon sets the course of the tides,

all things are renewed in the course of time.

Even as the darkness will yield it's place to the light,

the troubles we know, in His presence turn to flight!

Barbara A. Carlan 5/31/2009

Romans 12: 11-12 "And that, knowing the time, that now is high time to awake out of our sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed. The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armor of light.

"Hebron's Rose"

2009-07-09T05:39:00.000-07:00

Out of the realms of Heaven,

He came in the light of the morn.
Clothed in the swaddle of a baby,

bringing men hope that was born!
Jesus, the child in the manger,
sent down from Heavens domain.
Came to give life through redeeming,
the souls of those dying in shame.
What joy man can know in this Savior,
who gave up His life blood for them.
To open men's eyes that are blinded,
by paying their great debts for sin!

Barbara A. Carlan

Do You Love Me?

2009-07-07T12:59:00.000-07:00

Do you love me more than these, I heard my Savior say

Will you lay aside your plans, to work for me today

Won't you leave all those things, that take up all your time

And give yourself to me today and truly show your mine

Can't you see that all I want is what only you can give

Your life laid down for me alone as I showed you how to live

Will you leave the plans you've made and set aside your dreams

Dress for labor in my fields then come and work for Me?

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan

"His Glory My Highest Aim"

2009-07-05T17:33:00.000-07:00

Lord there isn't much that I can do, to change this course I'm on.

Except to learn in all that comes, to clutch your outstretched hand.

You see dear Lord I've done some things, to mess up what you planned.

I've set my feet upon a road, where feet can hardly stand.

There is some good that has come, from the problems I have made.

I've learned to search your word each day and I'm learning how to pray.

I've realized through all my pain that Jesus loves me so.

When there's sorrow I must bear, to Him in prayer I'll go.

Then In Heaven's light I'll see, the glory of your face.

I'll humbly serve your prescence here and praise your saving grace.

Bare me Lord upon your wings and raise me higher still.

Place my feet on solid ground to do your blessed will.

There still are times within my life, when I am tempted sore.

To plan and do the things I will and bring me troubles more.

Thank you Lord for all the things, that teach me who you are.

That prayer is key in granting here, your blessings from afar.

Teach me Lord to hear your voice in every circumstance.

To live in wisdom from on high and never live by chance.

Your glory is my highest aim, in all I strive to do,

to breath the life of your dear Son and do His bidding too!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan

"Truth and Freedom"

2009-07-03T07:02:00.000-07:00

On this "Fourth Of July," many Americans are wondering how the two words,"truth and freedom" equate to our present culture anymore. Never before in our history or even my life time for that matter have we doubted that these words were even applicable to our American way of life. Our's is an ever changing world and I seriously doubt there is much that most can do to prevent the further eroding of our civil liberties. In a world of change and uncertainty, the message of the Gospel of Christ is more relevant than ever before! Our present culture with all of it's mandates seeks to further enslave men by removing certain freedoms of expression through personal economic sanctions. We are told in the scripture that true freedom is found in a person not in governments or institutions of enslavement. In John 8:32 it says, "And you shall know the truth and the truth shall make you free." The truth referenced here is the revealation of God's son, Jesus Christ! Further in the gospel of John 8:36 it states," If the Son therefore shall set you free you shall be free indeed." Christ is the liberator, who through the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit, sets men free from the bonds and captivity of sin. Sin is at the core of all mens difficulties in this world. The root cause of man's seperation from God and his inability to please God at any level in the flesh.

God desires a personal relationship with man, that relationship was severed when sin entered into the world through Adam. Men from that point on were essentially dead men walking, physically alive but spiritually dead, seperated from the life of God in this world and eternity. Jesus Christ is the repairer of the breach between humanity and God! Christ is calling man to repent of his sin and turn to Him through the eyes of faith and be saved! No one can give to God what He desires from you in a relationship, but you! This is truth and freedom at it's personified best! I hope you'll make the decision to live for Christ today, He's waitng to hear from You!

John 3:16, "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believe in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Isaiah 45:21b- 22a

2009-07-02T05:51:00.000-07:00

"There is no God else beside me; a just God and a Savior; there is none beside me. Look unto me, and be ye saved, all the ends of the earth: for I am God and there is none else." KJV

"He's Jesus"

2009-07-01T13:03:00.001-07:00

Five little letters comprising His name,

hearts touched by His message are never the same,

He's Jesus!

His home is a temple, not made by hands,

designed and constructed from Heavenly plans,

He's Jesus!

A comforting sound to those broken by pain,

a balm full of healing, His glorious name,

He's Jesus!

Hallowed in Heaven in power proclaimed,

five little letters comprising His name,

He's Jesus!

A song of hope for those burdened by sin,

a victorious banner to an army that wins,

He's Jesus!

Five little letters comprising His name,

lives touched by His message are never the same,

He's Jesus!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan

"Moments Meant For Keeping"

2009-06-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

Crystal pearls on blades of grass, dance in early light,

while finely feathered voices sing, to praise the morning bright.

Harmonies of natures songs are heard while all are sleeping,

given to the dawn of day, as moments meant for keeping.

Rythmic chimes of a mantle clock, broadcast a new days dawn,

while sleep filled eyes, pull under wraps, to keep from morning sun.

Gently morning rises up, to invite the world now sleeping,

come enjoy lifes early praise, their moments meant for keeping!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan

"What Shall The Righteous Do"

2009-06-29T04:43:00.000-07:00

Broken dreams, a furrowed brow, a tissue soaked by tears

Empty hands, shattered hopes, from toils throughout the years.

Folks torn apart by endless lies and empty promises.

Wrought gapeing holes in human hearts, of houses we now live.

If the foundations be destroyed, what shall the righteous do?

Place your burdens at His feet, the Savior calleth you!

"Appointment In Prayer"

2009-06-28T11:02:00.000-07:00

Sweetly and softly He calls to me, from my deepest sleep.

Awake my child, my Savior bids, please come and dine with me.

I've made a place here for you, the table has now been set.

So wake up sleepy child of mine, our time you can't forget.

Smell the fragrance of the Bread, I've prepared for you.

Drink of living waters still and find your strength renewed.

Heaven's Breads aromas are now filling mornings room.

Come awake sweet child of mine, your Saviors calling you!

Written By: Barbara A. Carlan 6/2009

"Gratitude"

2009-06-27T11:14:00.000-07:00

"When we view all of life through the lense of a grateful heart, we are able to see more clearly the true riches we possess daily."

Barbara A. Carlan 6/2009

"Simple Things"

2009-06-26T14:42:00.000-07:00

"When we stop to enjoy the simple things in life, there will be no opportunity to concern ourselves with the chaos going on around us." Barbara A. Carlan

Pencil Drawing:"Fancy The Rooster"

Artist, Barbara A. Carlan

"Morning"

2009-06-26T06:14:00.000-07:00

Hens and chicks in barnyard dance, begin their morning struts. Joe rooster blows his cock a doodle do, while kiddies stretch and fuss.

The sun peeks through the eastern dawn, declaring day's new light,while birdies harmonize in praise to dismiss the darkest night. Dew sparkles in the early light, like golden diadems, as gems enhanced by sunly rays, to crown a kingly king. Brilliant floral colors, kissed by the new days damp, while smallest creatures in playful romp, they daily food will hunt. The grazing deer in meadows green enjoy their morning meal, tree's seem to stretch in arms of praise, for Heaven's glory still. Her cooling breezes kiss the air, to awaken all who sleep, come and greet earth's early sun, partake in morning feast. Smells of foods prepared by those of gentle graceful hands, fills every room with flavors, that cause kiddies to rise and stand. See the the facets of the morning, smell her fragrance sweet, receive the gifts she's come to give and taste her morsals treats. Hear her gentle music played on timbrels of the winds, arranged by cords of natures limbs, her message she will send. The symphonic chorus of mornings song cries awake to early sun, rise and shine come meet with me, to greet the early dawn!

Written By Barbara A. Carlan 5/15/1997

"Take Me Back"

2009-06-25T16:59:00.000-07:00

Lord, I wanna go back to some simpler times,when a scoop of ice cream, cost only a dime.

When you could buy candy for just a penny,and the cheeks of my fanny were really skinny.

I want to have time for a front porch swing, and try to slot nickles just to get me a ring.

Like maybe a walk in the park with some friends or discover a bow after pouring down rain.

A time when kids played with marbles and jax and liked to leap frogs by jumping your back.

Let me have moments to search through the clouds for those mean ugly lions and tigers that growl.

I wanna go back to when families all ate the table then snuggled at sundown to laugh and read fables.

When kids in pajama's gathered close in the evening,to hear scary stories that would start them to screaming.

I'd like to watch movies at Drive-In Theaters and fall sound asleep on our drive home much later.

To again know the comfort of dad's arms carrying me as I lay in his clasp, while my minds fast asleep.

I wanna play hopscotch with my sisters and brothers and feel those warm hugs as mom tucks me in covers.

To again hear the laughter of my sweet parents at play and smell mom's dinner cooking at the end of the day.

I'd like to go back when dad's prayed on their knees and their children were taught to say pretty please!

When kids wouldn't think, of talking back to their mothers nor steal from their neighbors, in the night under cover.

Lord, I wanna go back to those simplier times, when my worries were few and life seem to be fine.

A time when our families use to spend time together and talk to each other, about more than the weather!

Written by: Barbara A. Carlan 5/8/2009

"The Dreamer"

2009-06-25T12:03:00.000-07:00

A wingless flight through the imagination

escorts the dreamer to heavenly stations

Where the rainbow sunset embraces the skies

and the eagles soar in air currents of flight

In the magical wonders of his mysterious dreams

he phantoms of places that he only see's

Where illusional paradise kissed by the dew

leads the dreamer to quell, every fear he knew

The quiet reflections in his delusional crate

transports him to vista's, where stillness awaits

In visions of grandure, he imagines new world's

where there he's the mistral of regions untold

Those dreamlike excursions, to his whimsical places

grants the dreamer a respite, from realities traces

In his mental libations of intoxicant dreams

the cretin is rescued from life with it's schemes

Then he's suddenly jolted, from his mystical place

by sounds of one screaming, there's deadlines to make

He awakens to realize, he was just having a dream

and the boss isn't pleased by his escaping the scene!

Written by: Barbara A. Carlan 6/19/2009

"Toy Railway Express"

2009-06-24T18:21:00.000-07:00

"Toy Railway Express," has been a favorite for both the young and the old. Trains are a favorite of mine and you'll often find them in my paintings and drawings. The drawing was done in 11/2003 and the original is still available for sale nicely framed in a beautiful hand painted folkart frame. The original is done on vellum. Also available for purchase 16x20 lithograph prints @ $40.00 each.

"Hometown USA"

2009-06-24T18:12:00.000-07:00

This is my first painting done in 1992. I still own the original and have sold several giclee prints. There's something special about your first anything and this painting has been a favorite for me. The inspiration was simply my love for small town America and simplier way of life.