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Polly Castor

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

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Polly Castor

I work to amplify good wherever I find it. I love color, texture, beauty, great ideas, nature, metaphor, deliciousness, genuine spirituality, and exploring new territory. I encourage authenticity, nurture creativity, champion sustainability, promote peace, and hope to foster a new renaissance where we all are free to be our most fulfilled, multifaceted, and terrific selves. Read more here.

Pity and Praise are both Projections (Quote by Jena Schwartz)

February 26, 2023 by Polly Castor
Pity and Share are projections

Pity and praise are forms of judgment or expressions of fear that keep us from really knowing each other. Listen instead.

Categories Ideas Tags life lessons, Quotes, Release 5 Comments

Don’t Feel Sorry for Yourself (New Poem by Polly Castor)

February 25, 2023February 25, 2023 by Polly Castor
Don't Feel Sorry for Yourself Poem, by Polly Castor

To feel sorry for yourself is one of the worst things you can can do to yourself.

Categories Hope, Poetry Tags happiness, Mindfulness, Poetry by me, Release, Spiritual Healing 4 Comments

Recent Art Journal Pages

February 24, 2023 by Polly Castor
Art Journal Pages

Artist journal pages are often testing grounds for larger work.

Categories Art Tags Abstract Art, Artist Journals, creativity 1 Comment

The Chosen (Movie Review)

February 23, 2023 by Polly Castor
The Chosen Movie Review

I can’t say enough good things about this crowd-funded video series of Jesus’ life.

Categories Movies, Spirituality Tags 5 Star Movies, Bible, Christ, Christian, Jesus, Movie Reviews, Spiritual Healing 5 Comments

Black Cake (Book Review)

February 22, 2023February 22, 2023 by Polly Castor
Black Cake Book Review

I recommend reading this when you are in the mood for a thoughtful story a woman overcoming her obstacles.

Categories Books Tags 5 Star Books, Book Reviews, Fiction 1 Comment

Grid Journaling Ideas #3

February 21, 2023 by Polly Castor
Grid Journaling Ideas #3

Here are some more ideas for working in a grid journal, which is a great place to try things out.

Categories Art, Ideas Tags creativity, grid journaling, Mindfulness 2 Comments

Hearth (Poem by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer)

February 20, 2023February 20, 2023 by Polly Castor
Hearth poem by Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer

The soul is a kind of fireplace.

Categories Spirituality Tags metaphor, poetry by others Leave a comment

Recent Pages in My Bible Lesson Journal

February 19, 2023 by Polly Castor
Bible Lesson Journal Pages

This Bible study packs a huge blessing and my notes are improving with the benefit of my calligraphy pens.

Categories Spirituality Tags Bible, Bible Lesson Journal, Christian, Christian Science, life lessons, Mary Baker Eddy, Quotes, Relationship with God, Spiritual Healing 3 Comments

Roasted Beet Hummus (Recipe)

February 18, 2023February 18, 2023 by Polly Castor
Roasted Beet Hummus (Recipe)

The color here is lovely and it tastes good too.

Categories Food Tags Recipes, Side Dishes, Vegan, vegetarian 4 Comments

Listen: Harmony (New Monochromatic Collage)

February 17, 2023February 17, 2023 by Polly Castor
Listen: Harmony (collage) by Polly Castor

Harmony is going on all the time; we’ve just got to listen for it.

Categories Art Tags Abstract Art, Collage, Mindfulness 8 Comments

For Improved Relationships, Shine!

February 16, 2023February 16, 2023 by Polly Castor
Shine forth essay, improving relationships essay, sun metaphor

Let this enlightened approach fill your life and relationships with infinite blessings!

Categories Hope, Ideas, Spirituality Tags Essay, life lessons, metaphor, Release 6 Comments

Connecticut Women Artists Member’s Gallery 2023

February 15, 2023February 15, 2023 by Polly Castor
CWA Members Gallery

Check out highlights from our member’s gallery for this year.

Categories Art Tags Art by Others, Art Shows, Connecticut 3 Comments

Happy Valentine’s Day!

February 14, 2023 by Polly Castor
Happy Valentine's Day

Sending you love, hugs, and tons of appreciation.

Categories Hope Tags gratitude, Holidays, Special Occasions 3 Comments

Our Youngest Turns 26 (New Poem by Polly Castor with Photos)

February 13, 2023February 13, 2023 by Polly Castor

I’m so glad you came to be with us.

Categories Photography, Poetry Tags Family, Special Occasions 4 Comments

Prayer for a Friend (Poem by James Walter)

February 12, 2023 by Polly Castor
Prayer for a Friend poem by James Walter

No power can break this bond of Love that holds you safe from any harm.

Categories Poetry, Spirituality Tags Christian Science, God, poetry by others, Spiritual Healing Leave a comment

Blistered Grape and Roasted Cauliflower Lasagna (Recipe)

February 11, 2023February 11, 2023 by Polly Castor
Blistered Grape and Roasted Cauliflower Lasagna Recipe

Making this is a labor of love– like childbirth– a lot of effort which afterwards you forget all about in the resulting in joy and bliss.

Categories Food Tags Main Dish, Recipes, vegetarian 1 Comment

Gratitude (quote by David Whyte)

February 10, 2023February 10, 2023 by Polly Castor
Gratitude quote by David Whyte

Gratitude is not a passive response to something we have been given, gratitude arises from paying attention, from being awake in the presence of everything that lives within and without and beside us.

Categories Hope, Ideas Tags abundance, gratitude, life lessons, Mindfulness, Quotes 3 Comments
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Reviews from Readers

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

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

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

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

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.

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!

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

Butter! Lemon! Garlic!

It’s like a prayer!!!

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

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

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

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

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!!

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.

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

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

Really beautiful, very hope filled. I love this!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I love the feeling of playfulness and of uninhibited joy.

I LOVE YOU!!

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

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

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

Wonderful words of wisdom, Polly!

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

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

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

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

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

This blog is really stimulating and motivating.

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 !

Wow Polly!! You are buzzing with ideas.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you for passing along such wise words.

Love your pastels!

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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!

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

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.

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

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…

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.

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.

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

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!

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

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 :)

Wow…you have made carrots sexy!

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

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

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

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

This blog is colorful, beautiful, and edifying.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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 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.

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

This is absolutely wonderful and so helpful.

Thank you dear Polly!

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

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

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

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

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

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

You are terrific and amazing. In many outstanding ways.

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

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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

Thank you for expanding my ways to see, Polly.

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!!

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

I really enjoyed this book, thanks for recommending it.

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

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!

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks for your strong, bright and clear art work!

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…

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.

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

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.

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

You inspire goodness, wholeness, contentedness and joy.

AUDACIOUSLY GORGEOUS!!!!! (:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hoping others can/will read this…

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

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 never before found computers this beautiful….

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

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

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

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

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! ❤️

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

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

This is spectacular, Polly! I love it!

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.

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

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

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

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

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?

Excellent, meaningful, quotes. Thanks!

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!

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

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

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

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

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 .

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

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.

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.

Sounds delicious and simple! Two of my favorite adjectives!

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

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.

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

Beautifully written, Polly … captures my sentiments exactly.❤️

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

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

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

Your blog is very interesting and insightful.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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!

Love these colours and the strong contrasts Polly!

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!

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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.

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.

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

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!

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

Your art is thrilling.

Your blogs are a delight.

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

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!

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.

This speaks to me. Love your work, Polly.

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

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

Your work is always spirited and inspirational.

Well said Polly!

Life is so exciting we should limit ourselves less!

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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!

Outstanding, superb and beyond all imagination.

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

Thanks for the nudge!

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

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

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!

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

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

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!!

Your eyes are keen and your photographs dynamic.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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!

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

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.

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…

Your inspiration and love of nature is appreciated!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Archives

Recent Posts

  • New Blog Design is Now in Operation
  • How to Read a Book (Book Review)
  • Corn Risotto (Recipe)
  • 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)

Rotating Jewels from the Archives:

  • Degas/Manet Show at the MET in NYC →

  • Book Review: The Doctor’s Daughter →

  • A Seminar on Socrates’ Apology by Plato →

  • Amazing Fruity Bread Pudding Recipe →

  • We the People (poem by Rosemary Cobham) →

  • Langostino Pad Thai with Spaghetti Squash (Recipe) →

  • Book Review: The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry →

  • Photos of Early Spring Reflections →

  • A Firm Foundation (New Conceptual Painting in Pastel) →

  • Lion’s Mane Crab-free Crab Cakes (Vegan Recipe) →

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


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©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.

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