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Polly Castor

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

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Christian

Praying Beyond Petition (Deep Think #18)

March 18, 2022March 18, 2022 by Polly Castor
Praying Beyond Petition, by Polly Castor

I encourage you not to solicit God’s help but to claim it as a present, active, and powerful force.

Categories Spirituality Tags Christian, Christian Science, Deep Think, Essay, God, life lessons, Prayer, Quotes, Relationship with God, Spiritual Healing 2 Comments

Quote about Prayer (by Mary Baker Eddy)

January 23, 2022January 23, 2022 by Polly Castor
Prayer by Mary Baker Eddy

“Prayer cannot change the unalterable Truth, nor can prayer alone give us an understanding of Truth…

Categories Ideas, Spirituality Tags Christian, Christian Science, God, Mary Baker Eddy, Prayer Leave a comment

To the Estranged, the Grieving, the Abused, the Alone, I Hear You

December 27, 2021December 27, 2021 by Polly Castor
For the estranged, the grieving, the abused, the alone

I want to say to those of you out there hurting or isolated at this time: I hear you, and I feel for you.

Categories Hope, Spirituality Tags advice, Christ, Christian, Essay, Holiday, life lessons, Release, Spiritual Healing 4 Comments

Where is God at Christmas (New Poem by Polly Castor)

December 23, 2021 by Polly Castor

God is with the pregnant, the humble, the loyal.

Categories Poetry, Spirituality Tags Christian, God, Poetry by me 3 Comments

Thy Birthright (Poem by Mildred Spring Case)

November 15, 2021November 15, 2021 by Polly Castor
Thy Birthright poem by Mildred Spring Case

Forget not who thou art, thou son of God…

Categories Poetry, Spirituality Tags Christian, God, Hymns, life lessons, poetry by others, Relationship with God, Virtue 2 Comments

Recent Pages in my Bible Lesson Study Journal

June 6, 2021June 6, 2021 by Polly Castor
Pages in Bible Study Journal

Here are my most recent jottings and notes in my Bible study journal.

Categories Spirituality Tags Bible, Bible Lesson Journal, Christian, Relationship with God Leave a comment

“Love Not the World?!” (Polly Preaching #6)

May 16, 2021May 16, 2021 by Polly Castor
Love not the world? sermon

Here I repudiate the passage where the Bible tells us not to love the world.

Categories Spirituality Tags Bible, Christian, Essay, life lessons, Mindfulness, Virtue 5 Comments

Be the Light of the World (Gregory Boyle Quote)

May 2, 2021 by Polly Castor
Gregory Boyle quote, Weeping Cherry Tree photos

Like this weeping cherry tree, be who you are and shine forth!

Categories Photography, Spirituality Tags Christian, Jesus, Nature, Quotes 2 Comments

Recent Bible Lesson Journal Pages

April 18, 2021April 18, 2021 by Polly Castor
Bible Lesson Study Journal Pages

My ongoing, in depth, Bible Lesson study goes on. See in these pages what I’ve been both thinking about and working on.

Categories Spirituality Tags Bible, Bible Lesson Journal, Christ, Christian, Christian Science, Jesus 2 Comments

My Article for Easter in Three Connecticut Newspapers Today

April 3, 2021April 3, 2021 by Polly Castor
The Meaning of Easter, Resurrection a reminder of hope and renewal

Read here how I would define the meaning of Easter: Jesus came to show us we live forever.

Categories Hope, Spirituality Tags Christian, Holiday, Jesus, life lessons, Newspaper Articles, Special Occasions 4 Comments

New Cruciforms

January 13, 2024April 2, 2021 by Polly Castor
Cruciform paintings

Pondering the cross…

Categories Art, Spirituality Tags Christian, spirituality & art 2 Comments

Hosanna Lyrics with Palm Sunday Paintings

January 13, 2024March 28, 2021 by Polly Castor
Hosanna, Palm Sunday painting by Polly Castor

Listen to this classic Palm Sunday song while revisiting last year’s Palm Sunday paintings.

Categories Art, Ideas Tags Bible, Christian, Jesus, spirituality & art 1 Comment

Four New Pastel Paintings of Old Testament Stories with Animals

March 22, 2021March 22, 2021 by Polly Castor
Daniel and the Lion's Den (pastel) by Polly Castor, paintings of Old Testament stories

Here I both summarize and stylize four stories from the Old Testament by painting them in pastel.

Categories Art Tags Bible, Christian, pastel, trust 3 Comments

Christmas Thoughts 2020

December 25, 2020December 25, 2020 by Polly Castor
Christmas Thoughts 2020

This Christmas and beyond, let’s shine forth with that Spirit!

Categories Hope, Spirituality Tags Christ, Christian, gratitude, Holiday, Jesus, Newspaper Articles, Release, Spiritual Healing, Virtue 3 Comments

Recent Bible Lesson Journal Pages

February 3, 2021December 13, 2020 by Polly Castor
Bible Lesson Journal Pages

I encourage you to keep your own ongoing journal of your spiritual study. Here are recent pages from mine.

Categories Spirituality Tags Bible, Bible Lesson Journal, Christian, God, Spiritual Healing, Virtue 3 Comments

Stop, Look, Consider (Quote from Leo Tolstoy)

November 23, 2020November 23, 2020 by Polly Castor
Stop Look Consider Leo Tolstoy quote

The most important advice Leo Tolstoy could give.

Categories Hope, Ideas, Spirituality Tags Christian, Mindfulness, Quotes, Release, Virtue 3 Comments

Defining Consecration

September 24, 2020September 24, 2020 by Polly Castor
Defining Consecration

What does consecration mean?

Categories Hope, Spirituality Tags authenticity, Christian, life lessons, Spiritual Healing, Virtue 2 Comments
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Reviews from Readers

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

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

Your eyes are keen and your photographs dynamic.

Love your pastels!

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.

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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 :)

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

I love the feeling of playfulness and of uninhibited joy.

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

Your blog is very interesting and insightful.

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!!

Thanks for your strong, bright and clear art work!

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

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.

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

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!

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

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

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.

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

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

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

Really beautiful, very hope filled. I love this!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

You are terrific and amazing. In many outstanding ways.

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

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!!

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

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

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

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.

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.

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.

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!

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

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

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!

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

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!

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!

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

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

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

Thanks for the nudge!

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

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

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

I never before found computers this beautiful….

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

Beautifully written, Polly … captures my sentiments exactly.❤️

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!!

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

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!

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

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

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

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!

Wow…you have made carrots sexy!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Your work is always spirited and inspirational.

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

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!

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

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

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

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! ❤️

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Well said Polly!

Life is so exciting we should limit ourselves less!

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

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

This speaks to me. Love your work, Polly.

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

This is absolutely wonderful and so helpful.

Thank you dear Polly!

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 !

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

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

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

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

Thank you for expanding my ways to see, Polly.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

This blog is really stimulating and motivating.

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

Excellent, meaningful, quotes. Thanks!

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.

I LOVE YOU!!

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

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.

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

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

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’m so grateful for all you share with us.

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

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

Wow Polly!! You are buzzing with ideas.

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

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

Wonderful words of wisdom, Polly!

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

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!

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

I really enjoyed this book, thanks for recommending it.

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

Love these colours and the strong contrasts Polly!

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

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!

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 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.

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

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

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

Outstanding, superb and beyond all imagination.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Butter! Lemon! Garlic!

It’s like a prayer!!!

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

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

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

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!!

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

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

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

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!

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…

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.

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

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.

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…

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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 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.

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

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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!

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 !

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

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

This is spectacular, Polly! I love it!

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

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

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

Your inspiration and love of nature is appreciated!

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

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

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

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

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 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.

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

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

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

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!

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.

AUDACIOUSLY GORGEOUS!!!!! (:

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

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

You inspire goodness, wholeness, contentedness and joy.

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

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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

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

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!

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

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

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

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

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

This blog is colorful, beautiful, and edifying.

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

Hoping others can/will read this…

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

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

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

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

Thank you for passing along such wise words.

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

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

Your art is thrilling.

Your blogs are a delight.

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Archives

Recent Posts

  • 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)
  • Sunset Quote by Elizabeth Strout (with Sunset Photos)

Rotating Jewels from the Archives:

  • My Husband Made My One Woman Show Possible →

  • Happy Halloween! (Pumpkin Photos) →

  • The Bible Speaks to You Podcast is Launched →

  • Keep an Open Mind (Flannery O’Conner Quote) →

  • Crocus! (a Sketch and Photos from our Yard) →

  • Artwork I did in Chiusi (Pastel and Mixed Media Sketchbook) →

  • Other Recent Photos of Vermont →

  • Nine Black and White 8″x8″ Collages →

  • Tubin’ 4th →

  • The Talented Miss Farwell (Book Review) →

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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