Skip to content

Top Bar

Polly Castor

Fostering a new renaissance through creativity, authenticity, spirituality, and art

  • Home
  • About
  • Prayer
  • Art
  • Workshops
  • Merchandise
  • Podcast
  • Blog
    • -Art
    • -Photography
    • -Spirituality
    • -Ideas
    • -Books
    • -Movies
    • -Food
    • -Poetry
    • -Homeschooling
    • -Hope
  • Links
    • -Christian Science
    • -Blogs I Read
    • -Homeschooling
  • Contact
  • Subscribe

Month: May 2017

A Mockingbird Sings (a poem by Sydney Eddison)

May 14, 2017 by Polly Castor

Beneath the windows where my mother sat, a mockingbird sang– a slender, pale, gray bird…

Categories Poetry Tags poetry by others Leave a comment

Leaves Bursting and Unfurling

May 13, 2017 by Polly Castor

What a joy to see the leaves burst out and unfurl!

Categories Photography Tags Nature, spring, Trees 1 Comment

In the Company of Women (Book Review)

May 16, 2017May 12, 2017 by Polly Castor
In the Company of Women (Book Review)

Lets keep forwarding and amplifying the kind of authenticity, permission, and innovative ingenuity, expressed in these pages!

Categories Art, Books, Ideas Tags 5 Star Book Reviews, 5 Star Books, Art Books, Gift Ideas, nonfiction, Quotes 4 Comments

Qi (New Abstract Conceptualist Collage)

May 16, 2017May 11, 2017 by Polly Castor
Qi (Abstract Conceptualist Collage) by Polly Castor

Qi is an indispensable word to Scrabble and Words with Friends players as the only two letter word with a q. But what it means is also cool: “the vital life force that flows through a body.”

Categories Art Tags Abstract Art, Collage Leave a comment

Tulip Photos

May 10, 2017May 10, 2017 by Polly Castor
Tulip Photos

I rejoice every spring to see the tulips. They are one of my favorite flowers, so honestly vibrant and unabashed in the exuberance of their joy.

Categories Photography Tags Flowers, spring 2 Comments

Sweet Life in Paris (Book Review with Hot Chocolate Recipe)

May 9, 2017 by Polly Castor

Never having been to Paris, no other book I’ve ever read has made me feel more like I have.

Categories Books, Food Tags 4 Star books, advice, Book Reviews, Memoir, Restaurants Leave a comment

I’m in This Juried Show in Essex

May 8, 2017 by Polly Castor

My large monoprint collage Youth Symphony is in this juried show at the Essex Art Association from May 6- May 27. We had a great time at the opening on Friday night with both old friends and new.

Categories Art Tags Art by Others, Art Shows, Featured Artists Leave a comment

The Key to the Fourth Beatitude

May 7, 2017 by Polly Castor
The Key to the Fourth Beatitude

Be connected with your most fundamental yearning. Visualize righteousness as a force field: an energy-charged sphere of holy presence…

Categories Spirituality Tags Christian, Jesus, Quotes Leave a comment

Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup (Crockpot Recipe)

May 6, 2017 by Polly Castor
Moroccan Lentil and Chickpea Soup (Crockpot Recipe)

This flavor explosion is delicious, different, quick and easy, as well as nutritious and inexpensive.

Categories Food Tags Recipes, soup, Vegan, vegetarian Leave a comment

I Gave a Talk on Abstraction to the Guilford Arts League

May 5, 2017 by Polly Castor
I Gave a Talk on Abstraction to the Guilford Arts League

Last night I gave a PowerPoint talk to the Guilford Arts League titled Abstraction: Between Realism and Non-Objective Art.

Categories Art Tags Abstract Art, authenticity, education, Fun, gratitude 2 Comments

Youth Symphony (New Monoprint Collage)

May 4, 2017 by Polly Castor
Youth Symphony (Monoprint Collage) by Polly Castor

The trombone and trumpets account for most of the exuberant blast in this piece, undergirded by the bubbly twitter of the violins and the lower foundation of the cellos, full of vibrato and resonance. The overall sound is one of great happiness and jubilation.

Categories Art Tags Abstract Art, Collage, Monoprints 1 Comment

The Summer Before the War (book review)

May 3, 2017 by Polly Castor
Summer Before the War (book review)

It is a bittersweet–but more sweet than bitter– tale about (mostly) likable characters and the difficult times they find themselves in.

Categories Books Tags 4 Star books, Book Reviews, Fiction 1 Comment

Light in the Heights (New Monoprint Collage)

May 3, 2017May 2, 2017 by Polly Castor
Light in the Heights (Monoprint Collage) by Polly Castor

This monoprint collage captures the dramatic light descending around one of those great peaks on the west coast against darker clouds and shadows.

Categories Art Tags Abstract Art, Abstract Landscapes, Collage, Monoprints 1 Comment

Shells on Meigs Point (Photos from a Seaside Walk)

May 1, 2017 by Polly Castor
Shells on Meigs Point (Photos from a Seaside Walk)

In these photos, follow me on my walk, and as I tried to capture the magnitude of the quantities of shells I unexpectedly came across…

Categories Photography Tags Connecticut, rocks, spring Leave a comment
Newer posts
← Previous Page1 Page2

Subscribe for Polly Blog Alerts: Daily or Weekly

Reviews from Readers

Wow, you outdid yourself this month with your Bits and Clips. It was a wonderful mix of beauty, humor, and thoughtfulness.

You are … just plain wonderful, Polly! Your blog is bursting with poetry, art, writings, love of God, family, friends, all things great and wonderful and good!

Your multiple images and vocabulary choices give energy and renewed resolve to flagging spirits. Thank you for sharing.

You are terrific and amazing. In many outstanding ways.

This is spectacular, Polly! I love it!

Your reading challenge has inspired me and given me permission to read again, as previously I had just fitted reading round everything else. Now it is a legitimate activity in my life and I am enjoying it immensely!

Yes, lots of good flavor triggers in there. I printed it out and will try it. Thanks so much!

How blessed we are to have someone like you on this Earth.

What a breath of fresh air!! Thank you for your honesty, integrity and willingness to speak out for Truth and Justice!!!

I just love your photos, Polly. Whether it’s food or art or nature . . . They are always so beautiful and interesting and full of life !

Polly….I’m happier because of you; I sure do thank you.

Polly always captures the balance between what I can do, and all the miracles I am given.

This blog is simultaneously simple and profound– a perfect, balanced combination of seriousness and light.

Your art is thrilling.

Your blogs are a delight.

This speaks to me. Love your work, Polly.

I made your fabulous Fish Tacos and they were BEYOND delicious!!

This is absolutely wonderful and so helpful.

Thank you dear Polly!

Love this– actually so “timely” for what I have been thinking about lately.

I have just started this book and am really loving it! Thank you so much for recommending it.

Polly, you have such a great feel for things. I will enjoy you forever.

What a fine piece! You certainly are a shining example….[it] was uplifting and instructive.

I feel such gratitude for the beautiful way in which you express God. Thanks for blessing my life and being such a shining light in the world!

Thank you for your efforts. I look forward to your positive thoughts and love.

I am grateful for the myriad ways you celebrate Life in your art, activities and relationships. Your blog is inspiring in its magnification of Soulful goodness!

I LOVE THIS BLOG!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Thank you for revealing this idea you’ve been following. I can tell when an angel has tapped me on the shoulder–it feels light and right and fun.

Just beautiful, Polly. So honest and uplifting. Thanks for sharing your thoughts, and the helpful ones of others.

This is a fantastic article Polly…so much in it, I know I’ll have to re read it at least twice more!

Love your blog. Today’s was dynamite, and very helpful for understanding our role as individuals at this time.

This is absolutely beautiful and so incredibly helpful and inspiring! Thank you so much! ❤️

This blog deeply resonates while being beautiful, delicious, inspiring, and fun. Not easy to do!

I am touched by this well thought out, well written essay. You have put into words what so many of us have in our minds and hearts. Thank you!

Thank you for bringing your beautiful great outdoors into my world.
You do a great job taking pictures. The colors are so vibrant and I like that you notice
shadows.

You share so freely, with so so so much love and joy and an open-open-heart…

Polly, I am absolutely amazed. My mouth was watering! I’ll be thinking about it all night…and tomorrow we will break out the paints!

You are such an inspirational person Polly! I love everything you share with us – such a joy to have your daily input in my inbox! X x x

Polly, I needed you today and there you were and it was enough. Thank you for being a motivator.

Your inspiration and love of nature is appreciated!

Thank you for this exercise in balance, Polly. Helps a lot!

Thanks for your strong, bright and clear art work!

So beautiful and I have shared it with so many others. Thank you!

Your food is presented in such an artistic way that it looks beautiful, wholesome and totally delicious!!

Yummy and beautiful! I love all the colors and this food looks amazing! The plates too!

Your poem feels like a lesson, a treatment, and a love letter all rolled into one perfect package.
Thank you, Polly.

Beautifully written, Polly … captures my sentiments exactly.❤️

My mother adores your blog and speaks to me often about what recent nugget you shared which she thought was wonderful!

Oh so beautiful! I keep coming back to look at the paintings again.

Wow!! I cannot wait to try this recipe! Thank you!

You are so incredibly sweet, gracious, kind, thoughtful, creative, generous, joyful, witty, courageous, tender, persistent, compassionate, brilliant, articulate, ad infinitum!

I appreciate the joy, inspiration, and great information you provide us in your blogs.

Thank you for the insight. Especially separating church from a building or denomination. The passion and joy of color in your paintings is marvelous.

You are such a gem Polly- it is an incredible blessing to daily read your blog!

Thank you sincerely for your joyful out-pouring of love, light, color, comforting, inspiring words…

I LOVE YOU!!

You amuse-inspire-edify-entertain-inform-uplift-enhance-educate-color!-…my days!

This blog is a daily dose from an spiritually-oriented, artist, thinker, sage.

This is relevant and an excellent way for me to look at some situations I have been in recently.
Thank you Polly.
I will continue to benefit…

Thank you for passing along such wise words.

It’s a rare inspiration that can uncover an aching joy — but those poems do that. Thanks for sharing this with us.

Thank you! I enjoy reading your notes from the Bible Lesson. Your interpretation is helpful for my thought and I’m sure many others.

Thank you for bringing to light and sharing an undeniably important part of the one stupendous whole we all share…the countless ways beyond sight, and not to be missed, always at hand.

I must find the higher spiritual path that nature often helps me see. Thank you for this beautiful poem.

With its awesome art, recipes, book reviews, and really excellent writing, this blog is the perfect corner of the internet.

Yes indeed! You are a shining light and you are definitely using all your wonderful talents

Sounds delicious and simple! Two of my favorite adjectives!

You brighten my life with your thoughts, views, words, pictures….

I’m grateful for you opening my eyes to the wonders that surround us.

Thank you for sharing this.
Strange, nothing surprising here.
You are who you are.

Hi Polly, loved this poem. It radiates hope and feeling of calmness. I am glad I came across these beautiful words. Keep posting similar reads and spreading positivity.

I think one reason I enjoy your blog is that you Stand Forth In All Your God-given Glory, expressing everything Good!

I am so totally impressed with your photography, poetry, and painting.Your talent is incredible!!!

You are doing so wonderfully at praising God with your talents.

I always appreciate your reviews. Our fave film in 2019 was The Green Book – which we watched following your recommendation.

A wonderful poem Polly! Thank you. Deeply nourishing….

Thanks, Polly, for listening so carefully and sharing so selflessly.

This blog is colorful, beautiful, and edifying.

Thank you so much for your fantastic, soulful images– your photos really capture the love, joy, camaraderie, power, and intensity of the present moment.

Oh yum, Polly… These gorgeous photos made my mouth water and my eyes pop!

Your eyes are keen and your photographs dynamic.

The colors are exquisite!!! Thanks for bringing so much beauty into our lives.

These photos are so wonderful, it really warms the heart.

Thank you for this. Read it. Gave me hope. Going through an “unsure” time. Thank you for these words of strength, hope, and faith.

Such a complete radiance of Soul you are demonstrating. I find it very inspiring!

I so enjoyed your trip blog. The outstanding photos and the amazing narratives made me feel I was on vacation for a few minutes each day.

I wanted you to know that I found the time I spent on your blog to be relaxing, refreshing, inspiring, and totally enjoyable.

That’s all very helpful for me today, Polly. Thanks for going deep on this. I’m sharing your joy in our Source.

I love this poem, Polly, and I shall read it often! I feel sure it will help lift my thought to healing.

Thank you very much, Polly. You are a bright light!

The Brussels sprouts were an exceptionally BIG hit here…. could you direct me to more literature on spiritual healing?

Oh my goodness Polly, this is absolutely magnificent and reaches so far deep into my soul.

I love your website, messages, poems and art. Thank you for the blessing of community that you provide.

Your blog is uplifting and enlightening, and seems to speak to me just when I need it most.

Outstanding, superb and beyond all imagination.

Very helpful in these seemingly uncertain times. I found a couple of specific ideas expressed here that apply to a specific situation in my life. Thank you!

Thank you Polly!! This has needed to be said for a while!

What a beautiful spirit you have, shining right through your source.

You show us how God’s love shines in all things. You are a blessing!

Polly, what amazing and timely insight in these wise words! Thanks for sharing this wisdom.

These are awesome. You have such a gift for photography…and for pastels…and for cooking…and for finding interesting books…and, and, and. Where does it end?

I think you have covered absolutely every way anyone would wish to be blessed

Wonderful words of wisdom, Polly!

Perspective is everything – and choosing a liberating one blesses everyone, as you point out!

Loved your plein air painting, the pictures of the garden plenty — oh wow. Love opening your blog each day — it is a treat that I save sometimes.

What lovely Soul-inspired insights! Thank you for these great ideas!

Well said Polly!

Life is so exciting we should limit ourselves less!

Let’s all have a productive day and be joyful!

I am one of your readers who definitely looks forward to a positive message from you every morning. You grow people.

Thank you for the joy you share. I look forward to reading your posts!

Synesthesia! I can taste the yellows and hear the oranges! A feast to the senses! Brava talented Polly

Oh my gosh how did you know I needed this today? I am in absolute awe of your thorough and articulate way you describe how all of this works.

I just adore all of your wonderful posts and everything that you share so generously. ????? You have a beautiful sense of soul that you share – it blesses me and so many!

I love the photos – such a gift which makes me feel closer to Fall, my favorite season.

Keep up the good work. You are an inspiration! I love reading your blog with it’s many insights.

Your photos have opened my eyes to the beauty surrounding us everywhere.

Wow. Yes, quite something to contemplate. Thank you, Polly!!

Your site is bolstering my creative thoughts. I need to put them into action.

Magnificent poem. How blest you are to be a poet, photographer, artist, metaphysician, all wrapped up into One.

I get so happy when I see your paintings. I really do. They bring me such joy. I feel your heart when I see them.

Way to go on your artistic journey. You show great courage, humility, and such support for everyone around you.

Your blog captures a life well lived, constantly imparting good– truth, health and happiness– including beauty, harmony, art, science to the world.

Thankful every morning to see another treasure from you in my emails !

I’m so grateful to be able to enjoy all you so generously share on your blog, the colorful photos, the recipes, the art works, the insights, the book reviews and so much more!

Helen Frankenthaler’s works were interesting, but I like your abstracts better.

Excellent, meaningful, quotes. Thanks!

I am so happy to have found your site and to be able to enjoy your expression of Spirit! Love your poetry, your photos, your ideas, your …YOU! THANK you for sharing so abundantly!

Polly! I love this poem! Letting our true, authentic self come forth! Yes!! Thank you for all the delightful imagery!

Once again, you have come through for us with such clear and coherent thinking and put into words the feelings in our hearts.

Your work is always spirited and inspirational.

Outstanding message! And a sure “wake-up” call for me regarding mortal decline. I’m off on a refreshing direction. Thanks, Polly.

Graciously and lovingly spoken, like a true friend to all. Thank you for your blog Polly.

Neat! Love the black and white contrasts enhanced by the light.

I for one want to thank you so much for writing this blog. I started about a year ago and look forward to reading it every day. I feel like an armchair adventurer…

Thank you so much for this thoughtful, informative and articulate book review, Polly!

Today’s post was a Gift from God. Opening your email this morning truly lifted my Spirit. Thank you.

Beautiful photos! All that color, texture & gorgeous pattern….

Putting the art of poetry, photography and painting into your hands is God’s gift to us who get to read it and see it. Thanks.

Glorious! Thank you for tending these lovely flowers together, and for posting on your blog, Polly.

I love your blog! I shared it with my mom, an artist, and she is impressed with your art. I’ve also spent time studying your paintings. Just listened to your interview, it was stellar! Thank you!!

Thank you for writing this opinion so eloquently, Polly. You have addressed many nuances that I have been espousing for years, and your words are powerful and thought-provoking.

Lovely Polly! You are an inspiration! I am so happy to have your blog in my life!

We are so blessed with your access to nature and your talent to communicate visually….

This is a beautiful summary and reminder of how we can both individually and collectively dissolve the powerless, baseless lies with Truth. Thank you, Polly!!

Thank you for your transparency of love, your generous sharing of what you are pondering and doing.

I love your swirling universes, the spirals that draw one in and introduce us to ourselves.

Polly this is absolutely exquisite and so inspiring. I will refer to it often.

Without a doubt my life has been enriched and uplifted by my acquaintance with you through your blogs. Every day I look for the interesting ideas you amplify and the lovely arts you share with us. I am never disappointed.

I’m so grateful for all you share with us.

I never before found computers this beautiful….

I want to express my gratitude to you for such a well thought out essay. I found it quite enriching and resonate with those true answers.

This is absolutely magnificent. Bless your precious and beautiful soul for sharing this.

Polly, I just love your spirit, innovativeness, receptivity to beauty and to God’s goodness expressed. Thank you for your blog.

I love your coffee cake recipe, I have a book list from your blog, I love the photos, the poems, the paintings, the movie reviews, the humor, the honesty, the color.

AUDACIOUSLY GORGEOUS!!!!! (:

Polly, your wonderful blog is doing more than its bit in this dreadful time. Thanks, and keep on keeping on!

Love these colours and the strong contrasts Polly!

Polly lets her spirituality into her art as you can see in the many abstract paintings she creates. We were wowed by her ability and her encouragement of others to express themselves artistically.

Everything on your site is so colorful, spiritual and alive!

Quite unforgettable. You truly have a way with words:warm; strong; inviting; enlightening; so substantive, and more.

Your abstracts are interesting and you have a unique style that is all your own. Original, demonstrating individuality and confidence! I see joy and love expressed.

WOW! Polly! Some truly marvelous work there!!!

Excellent. Thank you for sharing this welcome thought to redirect today’s thinking.
I am grateful for this blog.

I appreciate your blog. It’s a breath of fresh air, beauty, and innovative thinking!

Thank you for using this platform to share these references for listening & learning. Now the work required to make a lasting change is up to each of us! ❤️

I did your tomato tart a few days ago, and it was fabulous! I am vegetarian and look for meals I can make that have lots of flavor. Your tart was just perfect!

You have a great eye for beauty Polly. I love your blog.

Thank you for sharing this quote. It is very appropriate for our times. A beautiful wake up call to change our thinking and focus on what is real and true.

Illuminating thoughts, thank you for sharing them. Very clear.

You are my favorite artist. I just have to say it. Your paintings make me so happy.

I have been blessed beyond words by your daily posts. I often quote you to others, saying I got the idea from a wonderful friend I’ve never actually met.

I find the ideas you share on your blog very encouraging in having a sense of order when it comes to goals and priorities.

I love that you live such an active life, have so many interests, and share your insights with me. Your blog is like a conversation with a dear friend.

Thank you for this….I absolutely love reading it!

I just want to say that I have really been enjoying your blog! It gives me hope for the world…

I read and feel the security of the hearth and home. Many thanks…

Absolutely stunning, Polly. I love the infinite range of ideas, expression, and media in this BIG blog of yours.

I enjoy your blog so much. But today you are on top. Every thought you expressed so lovingly…. some very funny but always with love. Thank you for all you bring to so many .

I’ve just finished this book and I loved it! Thanks for recommending it.

I loved this book, Polly. Thank you so much for the recommendation.

This poem is what I needed to further focus on moving out of the fear of COVID.❤️

Polly, I’m grateful for you, your prayerful work, your blog, your art, photos, words and colors.

Love your pastels!

You capture so vividly the beauty of nature. Thank you for bringing such beauty into my every day.

Yes, healing does happen when we deeply and humbly pray. Thanks for keeping that idea alive.

This is so well thought out and written. Thank you for this compelling essay. I agree with you on all points, Polly.

You are an inspiration to me, and I’m sure to many others. With appreciation for all you do to magnify good!

Beautiful photos. It is uplifting and energizing to see such bright, cheerful, healthy and fresh images. Thanks, I needed that!

Wish I had gotten this message 75 years ago. It makes so much sense and would have saved me a lot of self criticism. I love your blog.

Butter! Lemon! Garlic!

It’s like a prayer!!!

Wow Polly!! You are buzzing with ideas.

Thank you for the constant good thoughts and beautiful expressions of love and joy that you share on your blog.

Really beautiful, very hope filled. I love this!

Just a wonderland of possibilities and ideas and the materials to explore and discover. What a beautiful, exciting place! I’ve taken all this glory into my heart today and am grateful for it.

Thank you for your ultra positive, upbeat, cheering and cheerful expressions in so many forms. What great seeds to sow in world thought!

Thank you for sharing such a personal, and at the same time, universal, love of beauty.

What an incredible blessing and inspiration you are. Thank you so much for your beautiful heart!

This blog is really stimulating and motivating.

Your blog is very interesting and insightful.

Polly your blog is simply a marvelously enriching, thought provoking part of the daily wonders of life! I give thanks for you and the blog!

These thoughts you shared are a keeper for me to revisit when in need. You are a blessing to many!

I love this poem! Letting our true, authentic self come forth! Yes!! Thank you for all the delightful imagery!

Polly, please keep sharing these pages! I love seeing them. You inspired me to do the same thing.

I just had to comment on today’s blog. I LOVED it! I have had similar thoughts for some time.

Wow! What a stunning collection of gorgeous images and though-provoking quotes. They made my day.

Gorgeous new work. I love the vitality of the city scenes and vibrant color palette.

Thank you for sharing yourself and creativity in such a transparent way, it is very inspiring and humbling to me.

This blog is upbeat, progressive, sincere, colorful, metaphoric, and exploratory. Such a rich feast!

So beautiful, Polly. Thank you for spelling out – through such artful means – the beauty of patience.

I loved this post! It gave me much to think about. Thank you for being such a beautiful and prolific source of inspiration. You are a wonder! I’m a fan!

I truly love and am inspired by your blog, including capturing the beauty of life in the moment, teaching by example, taking time with children, and spirituality.

Love all you do and express. You’re an amazing role model!!

Thank you for Saying So Well What Needs To Be SAID!

Hoping others can/will read this…

I have so enjoyed your recent posts– about your garden, your reflections about parenting, your vibrant artwork– so many wonderful expressions of Spirit.

Polly, you are a whiz at living life the way it’s meant to be. I’m fascinated by all you do!

You encourage me to grow with your everyday wisdom and your lovely contributions.

Your blog has inspired me to get back into painting, cooking, prayer and meditation.

This couldn’t possibly be more perfect, – so reassuring, and so fully expresses in every way what we all are praying for. Thank you for your a beautiful heart and generous giving of it!!

Thank you for all your uplifting daily contributions, wherever form they take – photos, recipes, artwork, book reviews and smiley faces!

Thank you Polly for sharing those wise words! I heartily agree with them all now I have a bigger perspective on life.

The Spirit at work is so well described here. In between the lines I read that
our only true peace is in pleasing Our Creator! Thank you deeply, Polly!

Thank you Polly–you are always such a clear thinker and always willing to share your God-given gifts.

I am simply amazed at the wealth of beauty, soul, and experience. Love it. Love you! Thank You for sharing your innermost so openly.

How blessed we are to have someone like you on this Earth.

What a delight to experience the beauty of nature you shared of your slice of the world through these beautiful photos.

I recently I recommended your blog to a friend saying, “She’s like a dear friend, she just doesn’t know me.” Thank you for all the delight you add to my days!

This is one of the BEST explanations of one’s understanding of God I have seen in a long time. The image paired with the text was spot on!

Excellent post, dear Polly! Thanks!! There is lots that I relate to in your comments!

Your blog is full of the wonderful, multilayered colors and textures that you play with, and share so unselfishly with the world.

The last day of the month on your blog is always a BIG treat . . . This morning I went from fasting to feasting . . .

I love your Blog, Polly!! Therefore, I love you! Your art, your poetry, your philosophy, your religion, your book reviews, your photography, your … husband!

Wow, super powerful and definitely what I needed to hear today.

Providing us with wonderful refreshment, enlightenment, peace, encouragement, joy,
and a whole lot more. Thanks, Polly!

Thank you for your generosity and your overflowing sense of soul which you share so beautifully and articulately with everyone!!

Deep and encompassing. Passionate and motherly. Loving and expansive. The photos speak volumes too…and I see the connections with the poem perfectly.

Amazing, Polly! A wonderful example of seeing the possibilities…creativity at its best.

It is always refreshing to see the loves, joys, challenges, and triumphs that you share on your blog.

Thank you so much for this wonderful insight! You put into words what I have been grappling with for a long time. This is just what I needed today.

I’m new to your site and I love today’s post about being grateful!

Well Done! This is such a wonderful venture. Your work is just extraordinary!

Thank you for your commitment to reality and our true nature!

Really enjoyed your poem on Animal magnetism. Very clear truths. Thank you. Your vibrant art work is superb.

Wow…you have made carrots sexy!

Thanks for the nudge!

You continue to inspire, impress, and
amaze me, Polly.

Thank you for sharing the joy of your trip with us. I feel blessed this morning to know you in all the ways you reveal good and magnify it.

What a stunning place! It is just a slice of heaven. Thank you for sharing its beauty.

You inspire goodness, wholeness, contentedness and joy.

Polly, your reflection of Soul’s endless creativity is truly wonderful! Thank you for letting the divine shine through you so brightly!

I love the feeling of playfulness and of uninhibited joy.

Thank you for bringing your hydrangeas into my home via the internet. Other flowers are lovely too, but hydrangeas are SPECIAL.

I enjoy your strong, bold artwork– there is so much going on in them that my imagination takes off. I really appreciate your blog. It brings joy every day.

I did your 52 books challenge, and loved the structure that it provided to my selections. Doing it again this year too!

What an inspiring and uplifting painting. Thanks for sharing your inspiration with the world!

I am so grateful for your generous sharing of ideas across so many different fields! Your colorful art, your beautiful photography, your tasty looking and well presented dishes, your uplifting ideas, your insightful book reviews, and your wonderful healing work! You truly are a polymath!! I so look forward to your daily offerings and rejoice in them all.

Thank you for your burst of sunshine reflected in your positivity this morning… I look forward to your blogs.

Every day I look forward to your blog. It’s encouraging me to find ways to express what God reveals in me.

Thank you, Polly, for bringing clarity to the stressful events we’re experiencing. Your insights are thought-provoking and inspirational. I’m very thankful for your blog.

Thank you for all the inspiration you share so generously. I am deeply grateful!

This is such a beautiful and loving blog and feels much like your amazing dynamic spiritual art. You are proving and sharing truth in a precious, creative, encouraging, and heartfelt way. You inspire me!

Thank you Polly for your radiant joy and embrace of each of us, wrapping us in your color and beauty of Soul.

I really enjoy reading your blog – but I have to say that your monthly ‘Bits and Clips’ posts and your ‘Grace Notes’ posts are my favorite :)

Thank you for focusing in on and capturing the little things we so often pass by and/or take for granted.

Well done Polly, I love your book reviews! Please carry on the good work of guiding our book choices.

Love the poem so so much and the first painting with the trees is INCREDIBLE!!

Thank you so.much, Polly. It says with abundant clarity what thousands upon thousands of thoughtful men and women think and believe. I appreciate you!!

A powerful message. Thank you for getting it out there.

Wow! Love the abundance of exotic shapes and colours in the Autumn sunshine!

Thank you for introducing me to wonderful, amazing authors.
Love the pictures of your elegant flowers.

Love your blog’s colour and joyfulness and the inspiring leads, Polly. Easy to see why you are much loved. Thank you.

Grace is a beautiful quality and you exude it in spades – thanks so much for all you do and are! You are a treasure!

A wonderful poem Polly! Thank you. Deeply nourishing…. like a bird, natural and beautiful, just singing out truth in her special song on a fine winter morning.

Thanks so much for this recommendation Polly. We watched in awe … and have recommended in turn.

Absolutely beautiful!!! I love these particular colors together and the different styles and techniques really give it a lot of depth and texture. Brilliant!!!!

Your posts are treasure troves of your beautiful and giving heart.

I have to tell you that your spiritual to-do list was the springboard for a great talk with my older daughter. We are going to check on each other, and progress.

Thank you Polly for this article on supply! I cherish the healing thoughts therein very much, and they are very helpful.

Thank you for expanding my ways to see, Polly.

I am a silent regular reader of your daily blog, and I’m finally in touch to tell you how much I like it. I love it!

I salute you! And I sure do thank you for inspiring me to greater efforts along all lines of life!

I feel the joy and love of the color and thought in all your work! You are letting your light shine.

The phrase ‘divine choreography’ is resonating with me. Bless you for sharing your inspiration with us all.

Polly, I love your poem “you were never unwanted”. This poem really hit home. Thank you for your words of wisdom

All of your work is eye and mind popping. I love it!

This blog is so prolific and original, inspiring and joy producing.

That definitely sounds like a book I’d like to read! Thanks Polly!

Your zest for the good things in life makes me feel happy too!

When I open my email in the morning I read all the have-to emails first; I save yours to read as dessert. Thanks, Polly!

Love your blog. Today’s is dynamite and very helpful to viewing our role as individuals at this time.

Your photos are so vivid and expressive and inspiring and artistic and alive!

Oh how I love this! Thank you, thank you!

I really enjoyed this book, thanks for recommending it.

When you get famous, I need to be the president of your fan club.

LOVE it. Made me smile while I was reading it.

Thanks for sharing from the seat of your soul with generosity and openness.

Thank you Polly, for saying what needs to be said.

Thanks, Polly! Your zest for the good things in life makes me feel happy too!

Polly, thanks for “amplifying good”. That’s what you really do!

You are such an inspiring person, Polly, and I love the variety of your activities you share with us all! Thank you so much.

I look forward to your messages each day, like a delightful gift to unwrap.

Beautiful and profoundly perfect for pandemic season, your poem empowers hope for what’s next. I plan to read it at Sunday Devotional. Thank you!

Love the photos, as usual. You are a Creative Genius, Polly.

Thank you for your efforts. I look forward to your positive thoughts and love.

I can’t tell you how helpful this has been to me today. I must’ve read it half a dozen times or more. It’s helping me with a great challenge. Thank you!

WONDERFUL blog, Polly! Thank you for your spiritual calm, support for each of us, uninhibited creativity, and amazing paintings. I am just left in awe !

I have tremendous admiration for your strength, your depth, your compassion, your passion and your love. You are a woman deeply filled to the brim…

Help me keep this site ad free:

Please click below to make a donation via PayPal.

Need art materials?

Click the “Shop Now” button and a percentage goes to support this blog.

Categories

  • Art (1,471)
  • Books (736)
  • Food (852)
  • Homeschooling (158)
  • Hope (847)
  • Ideas (1,194)
  • Movies (190)
  • Photography (1,377)
  • Poetry (697)
  • Spirituality (829)
  • Uncategorized (5)

Archives

Recent Posts

  • Renovating our Side Porch (Before and After Photos)
  • Days are Getting Shorter (New Poem by Polly Castor with Photos)
  • My Favorite Paintings from the 2026 Fall IAPS Show
  • Cornell 7 and Rape Culture (Bits and Clips)
  • Vegetable Curry with Cod (Recipe)
  • Shady Hollow Series (Book Review)
  • Into the Autumn Field (New Landscape Painting in Oil)
  • Sunset Quote by Elizabeth Strout (with Sunset Photos)
  • Holy Peace (Poem by Danna Faulds)
  • Dolly All the Time (Book Review)

Rotating Jewels from the Archives:

  • I’m in this National Juried Women’s Art Show in Hartford →

  • The Children of Israel had PTSD →

  • Photos from my Mom’s Memorial Weekend →

  • Recent Artist Journal Pages →

  • Balsamic Roasted Mushrooms (Recipe) →

  • Recent Pages in my Bible Lesson Study Journal →

  • Proud of My Sister →

  • Multitasking (New Artist-in-Residency Abstract Conceptualism Painting) →

  • Gluten Free Crab Cakes (Recipe) →

  • Soul vs. Brawn →

Favorite Books

Science and Health with Key to the Scriptures
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change
Hints on Child Training: A Book That's Been Helping Parents Like Your...for More Than 100 Years
The Omnivore's Dilemma: A Natural History of Four Meals
 
Polly Castor's book recommendations, liked quotes, book clubs, book trivia, book lists
Follow on Instagram

Do you need art materials?

Click the "Shop Now" button and a percentage goes to support this blog.

Sign up for A Cup of Cold Water Podcast

Footer

©2026 Polly Castor. I encourage you to freely share and forward my blogs in context, with proper attribution, and with links back to this website attached. Feel free to use the "Print" button provided to utilize Polly's recipes for personal use. Prior explicit permission is required, however, for any portion of Polly Castor’s photographs, art works or writings to be otherwise copied, reproduced in any way, re-blogged or downloaded (Contact Me Here). Please don’t steal my work. Copies of photos and artwork are available for purchase in my Gallery.

© 2026 Polly Castor • Built with GeneratePress