Mojo's Place

summer in the city (and country!)

2009-06-04T15:11:00.000-07:00

In an amazing turn up for the books...Belfast has had a almost a week of sunshine...unheard of really! So in an effort to remind me of it...(when it goes!)...I have take a few little shots with my trusty little camera!

Oh...some recent art as well...

2008-12-07T01:02:00.001-08:00

....you can click on the images to enlarge...

Back at last!!!

2008-12-07T00:56:00.001-08:00

Yes...It's been an age since I last put anything in here... but I'm back! Hopefully get a few little blogs in before too long. Some recent photos ....taken on a autumn walk last month...lovely...lovely!

If you still keep popping back here...please leave me a comment !

The local graveyard...near my office and very sad headstone...poor man...

2008-08-15T07:26:00.000-07:00

Needing calm...

2008-08-07T02:11:00.000-07:00

...I wish I was sitting in a little secluded garden somewhere...with a blue sky overhead...surrounded by colourful flowers and a book in my hand. I wish I could hear the birds sing. I wish I was able to forget about worries, about work, about the future...I wish I was able to tie the anxiety into a bundle and forget about it. I wish!

The way we were...

2008-07-11T07:09:00.000-07:00

...visited the local folk museum recently and took a couple of photos...after having part of my family tree researched last year - it's made me look at the past in a new way... my family were real people..living real lives and they are part of me!

I love the quote from a Vietnamese Monk - Thich Nhat Hanh... 'If you look deeply into the palm of your hand, you will see your parents and all generations of your ancestors. All of them are alive in this moment. Each is present in your body. You are the continuation of each of these people'.

how true...

Off on a little holiday tomorrow...happy days... x be back soon!

What a difference a season makes...

2008-06-06T03:59:00.000-07:00

There's a street that I love just near where I work and I'd forgotten that I'd taken a photo in December time... I loved the shape of the trees. I'd taken another picture recently and was amazed how beautiful they are right now with their branches full again...

“In the depths of winter I finally learned there was in me an invincible summer”
Albert Camus

Sorry seems to be the hardest word!

2008-05-29T05:25:00.000-07:00

Have you ever said something to a friend or family member and as soon as the word or sentence left your lips...you regretted it? We've all done it. I did it a week ago and knew in my heart it was wrong...it had hurt the other person and I knew what I had to do to make amends. I tried to forget about it...but like a fly in a room ... it buzzed around every other activity I did throughout the week. Saying 'sorry' can be the hardest word ...but here's a tremendous relief and calming influence not only on your side but on the side of the receiver. Saying 'sorry' creates a win-win situation. 'Sorry' left my lips and right away the pressure I'd been feeling left me...how amazing that one small word can make a relationship whole again.

A couple more photos which I found recently...one taken in Carrickfergus Castle (which I love) and another taken from a car window of a gorgeous cloud (I love clouds too!)

...my garden of delight!

2008-05-21T06:59:00.000-07:00

Although they are coming to the end of their bloom (at bit like myself!!)...I thought I'd post a photo of my flowers ... bought at the city hall market at Christmas...gorgeous colours...huh!?

I had a delightful birthday yesterday and spent the evening with lovely people and lovely food!!

Another quote which means a lot....

Real friendship or love is not manufactured or achieved by an act of will or intention. Friendship is always an act of recognition.
...in the moment of friendship, two souls suddenly recognize each other. It could be a meeting on the street, or at a party or a lecture, or just a simple, banal introduction, then suddenly there is the flash of recognition and the embers of kinship grow. There is an awakening between you, a sense of ancient knowing.
John O'Donohue
Source: Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom

...be patient and trust...

2008-05-15T01:57:00.000-07:00

The photos here are taken at a gorgeous farm house I went to on Sunday called Sentry Hill in Glengormley – open to the public – quite a small place … but gorgeous garden …and lovely coffee!

I also want to thank my circle of friends so much for being the support I needed recently…you’re the best!

Words of Henri Nouwen that have really spoken to me this past month….

‘Be patient and trust. You have to move gradually deeper into your heart. There is a place far down that is like a turbulent river, and that place frightens you. But do not fear. One day it be quiet and peaceful….

…..receive more and more of the love that comes to you. Wherever there is real love for you, take it and be strengthened by it…..

….You are not yet there, but you are moving fast. There will be a bit more pain and struggle. You have to dare to live through it. Keep walking straight. Acknowledge your anguish, but do not let it pull you out of yourself. Hold on to your chosen direction, your discipline, your prayer, your work, your guides, and trust that one day love will have conquered enough of you that even the most fearful part will allow love to cast out all fear.’

...take me back to Kilmore!....

2008-04-25T06:56:00.000-07:00

Last weekend was a time of silence and calm…(some photos taken above …or below!)

This week has been filled with tornado-like activity – both at home and work. My head is spinning and I need a quiet spot to focus my thoughts and feelings. Sometimes giving the impression that all is well is not wise. Sometimes showing vulnerability is necessary…showing the hurt or fear or pain is necessary. I was reminded of this during the week and was privileged to listen to honesty and love shared.

Another friend used the phrase….words of silence and words of gesture…which makes a lot of sense to me right now.

xmox

Spring...

2008-04-10T04:09:00.000-07:00

I took the photo above at the weekend and thought ...I love Spring! It makes me hope for better things.

I also found this poem recently and loved it!

Moccasin Flowers

All my life,
so far,
I have loved
more than one thing,

including the mossy hooves
of dreams, including'
the spongy litter
under the tall trees.

In spring
the moccasin flowers
reach for the crackling
lick of the sun

and burn down. Sometimes,
in the shadows,
I see the hazy eyes,
the lamb-lips

of oblivion,
its deep drowse,
and I can imagine a new nothing
in the universe,

the matted leaves splitting
open, revealing
the black planks
of the stairs.

But all my life--sofar--
I have loved best
how the flowers rise
and open, how

the pink lungs of their bodies
enter the fore of the world
and stand there shining
and willing--the one

thing they can do before
they shuffle forward
into the floor of darkness, they
become the trees.

Mary Oliver

Take a break over Easter...

2008-03-22T04:12:00.001-07:00

...I don't mean an expensive trip abroad or spending a fortune in a shopping mall...try this...

1. Go to a room in your home
2. Shut the door
3. Light a candle
4. Read a book
5. Write a poem!
6. Get a sketchpad and draw something
7. Put on some music
8. Look out the window
9. Listen to the birds
10.Just BE....

..Try it...it might surprise you!
..MOx

PS Take coffee!

A powerful photo...

2008-03-21T04:52:00.000-07:00

...to reflect on...

some calming moments...

2008-03-13T08:10:00.001-07:00

...taken recently on a Sunday stroll....

...longing for a little quiet!!

2008-03-13T03:30:00.001-07:00

I haven’t posted in a while mainly because of being hugely busy at work and also because I sometimes think that the things I have on my mind are not hugely interesting to anyone else but me!

I’ve had an interesting time recently – with a lot of pondering and thinking about the people and things in my life which are really important to me. I yearn frequently for space to sit and reflect and try to carve out a nook in my week to do this. Sometimes it can be difficult in the course of a normal day. The bus first thing in the morning is filled with twelve year old voices shouting abuse at friends sitting right beside them!…the noise of the passing traffic as I walk the rest of the way is a nightmare! In the office I counted 18 people in and out within the first hour of the working day asking for everything from home made birthday cards…staples…a tray of coffee..someones new address…….…oh…for solitude! I guess that’s why I go for a walk around the quieter roads at lunchtimes…where I’ve found a hidden pond 5 mins away with lots of ducks… a couple of swans and water like a mirror reflecting what sun there is……I can sometimes hear my heartbeat (am I weird? do others feel like this?!!) The only thing at work which I never complain about is the sound of a child giggling…or when a little one who doesn’t usually make eye contact because of their learning disability glances sideways at me, smiles and says ‘Mo!’ – I will never complain about that!

I have promised myself that in the next little while I will – as the late John O’Donohue suggested we do – ‘attend to myself’ – with moments of quiet…times of reflection and hopefully a period over Easter when I will hear God’s whisper above the noise of life…

bye for now…MO

PS the photo was taken last week near the office!

I'm rich!

2008-02-12T06:47:00.000-08:00

...well not with cash I hasten to add...but spending a weekend with the most amazing group of people has been just fab. I then arrived into the office today and received an email which I appreciated so much - thanks my friend!
...I feel blessed!

"My friends are my estate."
- Emily Dickinson

...it's been a good week...

2008-02-07T07:18:00.000-08:00

...and an even better weekend! Eight souls are heading off to Wexford for a weekend of long chats in front of a blazing fire (although if this weather keeps up we may not!)...walks on the beach...gorgeous meals made by loving hands and a little reading thrown in for good measure. I've spent the day getting as much admin completed in the office as possible...so that I can head off with no major stuff outstanding (who am I trying to kid!?).

We had a wonderful Tues evening with the same group of friends and there were smiles and tears and connection... a special time for each person there.

Until next time...blessings!

Belfast from the big wheel!

2008-01-21T07:56:00.000-08:00

...looks kinda nice...huh?

...where's that brush!?

2008-01-11T07:52:00.001-08:00

...thanks to my last retreat and art materials being supplied...it's given me a real push to begin painting again. It's a lovely feeling to be creating stuff that I can give to others - that's the big thrill for me. I've also been interested in the way the paint looks on the canvas and have tried to take a few photos to let you see what I mean..

In memory of John O'Donohue

2008-01-08T05:59:00.000-08:00

...taken at Greenbelt 07 - we'll miss that unmistakable voice...

Sad news...

2008-01-05T04:17:00.000-08:00

...that one of my favourite authors/speakers - John O'Donohue passed away on 3rd January 2008. He was a regular at Greenbelt and it was lovely to meet him last August at his book signing... an amazing person.

Beannacht ("Blessing") by John O’Donohue

On the day when
the weight deadens
on your shoulders
and you stumble,
may the clay dance
to balance you.

And when your eyes
freeze behind
the grey window
and the ghost of loss
gets in to you,
may a flock of colours,
indigo, red, green,
and azure blue
come to awaken in you
a meadow of delight.

When the canvas frays
in the currach of thought
and a stain of ocean
blackens beneath you,
may there come across the waters
a path of yellow moonlight
to bring you safely home.

May the nourishment of the earth be yours,
may the clarity of light be yours,
may the fluency of the ocean be yours,
may the protection of the ancestors be yours.
And so may a slow
wind work these words
of love around you,
an invisible cloak
to mind your life.

Last weekend's retreat...almost heaven!

2007-12-19T03:58:00.000-08:00

..good company..twinkling lights...art..books..good food..sharing..caring..frosty windows..roaring fires..crisp walks..poems and prayers..Thanks Pad! (and the gang!) xmo mox

A prayer....

2007-12-10T02:46:00.000-08:00

Help me to make you the center of my inner life. Give me the grace of prayer. Show me how I am fooling myself when I fail to make you the center of my life and my prayer. Let me understand that in and through you all my little concerns will be taken care of. You do not despise my worries, but you ask me to trust that you will deal with them when I simply keep my eye on you and your kingdom. Teach me your way, O Lord. Amen. (Henri Nouwen)

...a couple more pictures for Markie...get your gloves out...and a scarf...and ear muffs...see ya next week!

mx

Maybe winter isn't so bad after all!

2007-12-04T01:18:00.000-08:00

...went awalking through the Belfast Market the other evening with the lights twinkling and the big wheel looking amazing in the moonlight...not a bad way to end a day!

I also saw the cutest thing on the bus to work this morning...three little sisters - probably around 7,5 and 3ish...all with short blond hair...all wearing the same brown coats, fur trimmed hoods up and they reminded me of those sets of little Russian dolls where one is smaller than the next!

Have a nice wintery day!

Longing for the summer!

2007-11-15T02:20:00.000-08:00

On these dark, cold mornings as I wait for the bus...I remember the heat of August and thought I'd cheer myself up with a posting of some Greenbelt Festival photos...ahhhh....sunshine!

thanks for Saturday!

2007-11-07T01:50:00.000-08:00

A good friend and I took a long walk around Mountstewart Gardens last weekend and it was a joy - leaves crunching...blue sky...birds singing...just beautiful. But in the midst of the day there was a certain sadness as he remembered a special person who had passed away... who had loved the lake..loved seeing the seasons change and in a way - seemed to be with us as we walked. Thank you for sharing this special time with me my friend. These photos are for you.

Up with the lark...

2007-10-26T06:05:00.000-07:00

There's something to be said for starting work early...this morning I was greeted with the most gorgeous sky...just so amazing and gone within five minutes! It was a moment of beauty to focus on...

I read recently...sometimes you pressure yourself into taking it all in, when grasping one small detail can be so rewarding. Right now, you need to focus on one single aspect of your life --- how can you improve it? Instead of your overall health...just focus on your teeth! Instead of making more money...just focus on saving a penny at a time! Instead of find a true love...focus on just finding someone you can have a really great conversation with! The best way to move forward is simply one step at a time.

Have a blessed weekend...

The people in my life....

2007-10-18T07:14:00.000-07:00

See how that works? Your people are much more than people. They are a community of cheerleaders, therapists and treasured advisors.
I don't remember where I found the quote above...but it's so true. I've had a number of retreats in the past year and each time I have space to think about my life...there's one thing that makes me smile as I'm walking around the lovely country lanes ...and that's the family and friends I have in my life. Each one is special to me...each one adds a different colour to my week..they cheer me on...they listen to my woes...they feed me with words as well as food! I've also realised that behind each smile...each look...each gesture there is a world of hopes, questions, insecurities, dreams - each person's life is a story just waiting to be heard. I'm fortunate to have a whole library of friends and family - I wish the same for you.

Good friend...good day!

2007-10-17T02:37:00.001-07:00

At Lynn & James' wedding last week...a wonderful time was had!

...a lovely evening...

2007-10-03T03:28:00.000-07:00

...spent with some lovely people last night - and cute little one month old girl who was very well behaved!

Sorry this blog has suffered some lately because of an especially hectic September - hope things are well in blogland with you!

I am now looking forward to a delightful weekend ahead - a silent retreat - ahhhh...bring it on! Words are wonderful but sometimes silence says much more! If anyone still tunes into this wee blog...let me know and leave a comment! Bye for now...

I love this!

2007-09-13T06:06:00.000-07:00

Cartoon by Dave Walker. Find more cartoons you can freely re-use on your blog at We Blog Cartoons.

...photos take by my 12 year old niece!

2007-09-13T05:30:00.000-07:00

....I think these pictures taken last weekend are amazing! She obviously has a great eye for composition and when she gets my camera...she won't give it back!!

they say...

2007-09-01T03:14:00.000-07:00

they say she's stitched together
with dreams
and when it seems she's reached the edges of her day
she quilts with kindness
where it's frayed
and prays
beneath the sapphire sky

I'm back!

2007-08-30T08:18:00.000-07:00

...and a great weekend was had by all...thank you my friends xxx

...12 days of freedom!

2007-08-17T06:54:00.000-07:00

...my last day at work for a little while! I have this week updated all my work files...archived all the old stuff...fixed the purchase orders...de-cluttered my office...made hazelnut coffee...sent payroll details off for staff...updated our transport lists...had lunch with the main office staff...put in a stationery order...phoned new nursery parents...received flowers from a old parent...fixed the photocopier....listened to classic fm...made up consent form packs...emptied the bins (I'm not proud!)...and now...in 1 hr 15 mins...I shall leave the desk with a smile of contentment on my face!

I'm so looking forward to going to the Greenbelt Festival next weekend...lots of great speakers...music...art...and friends (old and new)- ahhhh lovely!

Clouds...and angels...

2007-08-13T04:18:00.000-07:00

I loved these clouds I saw yesterday...and they made me think of a favourite poem...

Questions About Angels
by Billy Collins

Of all the questions you might want to ask
about angels, the only one you ever hear
is how many can dance on the head of a pin.

No curiosity about how they pass the eternal time
besides circling the Throne chanting in Latin
or delivering a crust of bread to a hermit on earth
or guiding a boy and girl across a rickety wooden bridge.

Do they fly through God's body and come out singing?
Do they swing like children from the hinges
of the spirit world saying their names backwards and forwards?
Do they sit alone in little gardens changing colors?

What about their sleeping habits, the fabric of their robes,
their diet of unfiltered divine light?
What goes on inside their luminous heads? Is there a wall
these tall presences can look over and see hell?

If an angel fell off a cloud, would he leave a hole
in a river and would the hole float along endlessly
filled with the silent letters of every angelic word?

If an angel delivered the mail, would he arrive
in a blinding rush of wings or would he just assume
the appearance of the regular mailman and
whistle up the driveway reading the postcards?

No, the medieval theologians control the court.
The only question you ever hear is about
the little dance floor on the head of a pin
where halos are meant to converge and drift invisibly.

It is designed to make us think in millions,
billions, to make us run out of numbers and collapse
into infinity, but perhaps the answer is simply one:
one female angel dancing alone in her stocking feet,
a small jazz combo working in the background.

She sways like a branch in the wind, her beautiful
eyes closed, and the tall thin bassist leans over
to glance at his watch because she has been dancing
forever, and now it is very late, even for musicians.

Billy Collins, “Questions About Angels” from Questions about Angels. Copyright © 1991 by Billy Collins. All rights are controlled by the University of Pittsburgh Press. Reprinted with the permission of the University of Pittsburgh Press, www.pitt.edu/~press/.

Source: Questions about Angels: Poems (1991).

...memories...

2007-08-10T07:25:00.000-07:00

A few evenings ago - when a group of friends began talking about school days - it amazed me how many stories and emotions came flooding back. Some stories being told about certain teachers and situations were so funny my sides were sore from laughing. Some other stories made me upset even now. I was transported back to the smell of chalk and echoing corridors and it was quite unnerving. I guess we all have highs and lows connected with our school days - 'just wondered how the school children today cope with all the stress...sort of glad I'm working!!

five things that make me happy...

2007-08-10T06:52:00.000-07:00

1 a smile from a friend
2 being given a card when it's not my birthday!
3 someone phoning out of the blue for coffee
4 a second hand book bought just for me
5 a loving family

...pics below...

2007-08-01T08:06:00.000-07:00

...forgot to say...you can click on any picture to enlarge it.

Hope you're having a good week. I'm in the middle of a massive clear out of my work space! I'm surrounded by floppy disks...bin bags...and dust!! ...cough!

...a few recent photos....

2007-08-01T07:44:00.000-07:00

...enjoy the weekend!

2007-07-27T08:01:00.000-07:00

...Hope your weekend is a special one!

One question.... what are you reading at the moment? I want some ideas as I'm between books...ta!

...when words are not enough...

2007-07-24T07:38:00.000-07:00

...in the past day or two - three people have shared their feelings of grief with me.

One girl lost a good friend three months ago and he would have been 26 this past weekend...she texted me with the following verse...

'the grass withers, the flower fades when the breath of the Lord blows on it, surely the people are grass...but the word of our God will stand forever'...

One of my best friends shared last night how the loss of his mum has affected him during the past year..how he misses her words of encouragement...her look of total acceptance...her touch.

I wanted to cry.

A work colleague wept today over the death of her dad this month...he was 60.

....I feel privileged to be alongside these people...to listen...and to hold them when words are not enough.

...I'm still here!!

2007-07-18T03:45:00.000-07:00

Sorry no blogs recently. I've been on holiday to beautiful Dorset (this is not my photo but it gives you any idea of the lovely houses!)
and not back to work - as most of you know I don't possess a computer at home...yes...strange isn't it!? But I hope to get back with a longer posting very soon. Hope all of you out there are well and enjoying the summer months! Bye for a little while.

...Hello? Can I speak to the real me?

2007-07-02T06:48:00.000-07:00

Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter and those who matter don't mind. ~Dr. Seuss

God has given you one face, and you make yourself another. ~William Shakespeare

We are so accustomed to disguise ourselves to others that in the end we become disguised to ourselves. ~François Duc de La Rochefoucauld

...lack of posts...abundance of workload!

2007-06-26T05:19:00.000-07:00

...apologies for not posting more...but I usually pop a little thought on during lunch time at work and work is just so hectic right now...it's impossible - well almost impossible as I'm clearly posting right now!! There's light at the end of the tunnel though with a couple of holiday weeks coming up in July...horray!

I had a lovely wee time over this past weekend...meeting up with Keli, Gail and Sarah over a coffee at St George's Market (a great little market in Belfast open each Saturday). I read recently that it's the oldest covered market in Ireland - who'd have guessed!? I just love the atmosphere...the food stalls...herbal teas...jewellery...and bumping into whoever happens to be there!

Well...folks...that's all for now - until next time - take care and if you feel inspired - leave a little comment! Mo

..before the rains came

2007-06-21T03:35:00.000-07:00

...some shots from my garden...you can see the images clearer if you click on them!

...my symphony

2007-06-21T01:55:00.000-07:00

I've never been one for 'keeping up with the Joneses' - it doesn't really matter to me if a neighbour gets a new car...I never lose sleep over someone having a better salary...it doesn't annoy me that my clothes haven't a designer label. I listen to people whose aim in life is to better themselves...to get the best and be the best (and sometimes that's not a bad thing)...but it seems that they are so sad and stressed all the time! Though I have to admit it's sometimes very difficult not to get sucked into the whole materialism thing...I want to be content with my lovely life...my family..friends...job...health...home...books...art...coffee...faith...music...whatever is happening right now...I want to be thankful and content...that's what I'm aiming for.

I read this recently and adored it...

“To live content with small means; to seek elegance rather than luxury, and refinement rather than fashion; to be worthy, not respectable, and wealthy, not, rich; to listen to stars and birds, babes and sages, with open heart; to study hard; to think quietly, act frankly, talk gently, await occasions, hurry never; in a word, to let the spiritual, unbidden and unconscious, grow up through the common - this is my symphony."
William Henry Channing's Symphony

...water water everywhere!

2007-06-16T03:28:00.000-07:00

Living in Northern Ireland we're used to rain...rain in the spring, summer, autumn and winter...but never rain like this!!
This week brought flooding to my local area - like I've never seen before! Today it feels more like November than June!! What's it like where you are?

Bye from a chilly Belfast....Mo

Work...Work...Work!

2007-06-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

I haven't been here for a while. It's been particularly busy in work just now...a busy month and then a well deserved rest next month! Yeah!

We all struggle at times with stress at work...with no light at the end of the tunnel...with difficult people (and that's just me looking in a mirror!)..whatever ...but work can sometimes be too much!

Tuesday past a friend shared the words of a John O'Donohue blessing which I loved! A few of the lines are...

.....May you see in what you do the beauty of your own soul.
May the sacredness of your work bring healing, light and renewal to those who work with you and to those who see and receive your work.
May your work never weary you.
May it release within your wellsprings of refreshment,
inspiration and excitement.
May you be present in what you do.
May you never become lost in the bland absences.
May the day never burden....

Amazing! If only I could live those lines at work...I want to try at least! Blessings to you ...

...my imaginary dinner party..

2007-06-02T04:21:00.000-07:00

In another blog recently..they were putting together some guests they would invite (living or dead) to a dinner party and it got me thinking who I would invite...so far I'd definitely have...

Betty MacDonald..

Author of only 4 books..The first being The Egg and I...humorous account of her life on a remote, run-down chicken ranch in Washington's Olympia Mountains. I would love to have a chat to her!

Jim Croce...

...one of my favourite singers who died in a small commercial plane crash on September 20, 1973, one day before his third ABC album, I Got a Name was to be released.

Bette Davis...

...just because our book group is reading her life story just now and she sounds so amazing!

Norman Rockwell....

Rockwell is most famous for the cover illustrations of everyday life scenarios he created for The Saturday Evening Post magazine over more than four decades - would love to see him paint!

My great...great...great grandfather! - No photo for this - But I'd love to see what he looked like!!

Affection

2007-06-01T03:13:00.000-07:00

“Affection is responsible for nine-tenths of whatever solid and durable happiness there is in our lives.”
I love the word - AFFECTION...always have! I was sitting thinking of my family and friends during this week and thinking about the love and acceptance that surrounds me. I am a fortunate person...I know that! But there is something in the word affection that makes life worthwhile. Sometimes affection is very difficult to put into words...but we all know it when it comes. It's a fondness for another...an appreciation...it can be verbal or nonverbal...it can be a sympathetic ear..but whatever it is..it's special. I look around my friends each Tuesday evening when we get together for 'our meal' and I feel such affection for these people - how does that happen? We're all from different backgrounds...different jobs...different family situations...but there is a connection which is very, very special...an affection between us that goes beyond words. I'm one fortunate lady!

Have a special weekend....Mo

...my trusty little camera captured these...

2007-05-18T07:52:00.001-07:00

...have a lovely weekend!

...I have a history!

2007-05-16T08:09:00.000-07:00

...did I ever tell you I won a famly tree? Well actually...I won a family historical search from a local competition. This all happened nearly a year ago and I'd almost forgotten about it...until last week I received the results! I know know my great...great...great grandfather lived in Ballymena, Co Antrim and was born around 1805 - his name was Robert and my great, great grandfather was Thomas and he married Maria in May 1859 and my great grandfather was Alexander - born in 1877 - all farmers - I'm so excited! That's obviously were I get my work ethic from...I should really be in a field somewhere slogging away - but here I sit at my computer...slogging away!! HA! It does somehow give me a feeling of connectedness!

Hope all is well with you! Let me know...leave a wee comment!

...windows...

2007-05-01T03:39:00.000-07:00

I visited Carrickfergus Castle at the weekend and it was beautiful...took a couple of photos which I thought I'd post. The weather made the castle look even more amazing. I love history ... always have and history at school was definitely a joy to me. There's just something about standing inside a building which has survived from 1177 which makes me feel safe and secure!!

Off the subject at little... but I read recently a lovely illustration of 'community'. It said 'the kind of community we envisage is best described as the windows of the building: they protect us from the elements, yet they also allow use to see other people and let in the light of their presence. We can see their needs and communicate with them; we can also open the door of the santuary, the door of our hears, and let them in. If our sanctuary has no windows, it will be a dark and gloomy place. So, like good builders, we need to balance out the need for windows and the need for strong walls. The strong walls of obedience need the windows of community to ensure that our santuary is bright and welcoming'

...finding sanctuary...

2007-04-27T07:46:00.000-07:00

...if you long for a little bit of solitude in your busy life...read this lovely book. I'm going through each chapter with a group of my friends and looking forward to the conversations!
Check out the website as well...www.findingsanctuary.org

Have a blessed weekend!

...here's looking at you kid!

2007-04-19T07:33:00.000-07:00

Do you ever think that you’re the only person that thinks like you? I sometimes find it a real comfort to find a person I just ‘click’ with. Someone who isn’t afraid to trust…to be brave in their vulnerability. Now…I’m not for one minute saying I’m like that all the time…but I try. I try to be as real with friends and family and work colleagues and new people…so that ‘what they see…is what they get’. What’s the point in being aloof…or shy and withdrawn…or excessively loud…or rude…when they’re just people like you. People who have joyful days…down days…busy days…just people trying to get along with other people who have joy, down and busy days too! I had written a little paragraph a while back on eyes…and how much they tell us about another person. Next time you’re chatting over coffee…or on the bus…or waiting in a doctor’s surgery…look and notice how their eyes mirror how they’re feeling. If you know a person really well…comment on it. It’s amazing when you say to someone …’your eyes are telling a story…feeling under pressure?…anything I can do to help?’.

...two of my favourite places...

2007-04-18T08:01:00.000-07:00

Over the Easter break...I spent some time on a lovely pebbley (is that a real word?!) beach and some time in my tiny garden. I loved both places and wondered at the Creator's hand in it all.

A very sad time...

2007-04-17T07:30:00.000-07:00

...as one of my 'blog friends' copes with the Virginia tragedy - living close to the campus and being an ex-student there. My thoughts and prayers are with all concerned.

Good old Jane!

2007-04-12T06:02:00.000-07:00

...we seem to be Jane Austen crazy at the moment. Three new adaptations on television over the last month..'Being Jane' in the cinema and have just finished reading 'Jane Austen - A life' by Claire Tomalin ...which I really enjoyed. Romance is certainly not dead when Jane's around!

...oops...spotted a mistake!

2007-04-12T05:59:00.000-07:00

..typing too fast...

...below should have read ... moments to 'just BE'!!

hope your Easter was special!

2007-04-12T05:48:00.000-07:00

I had a lovely, restful time ...with some holy moments...moments of refreshment...moments with family and friends...moments to 'just being'. Hope you did too!

A good friend recently send me an email with these lines...

......'I was thinking that maybe, just maybe, we're expecting this world to keep a promise it was never designed to keep. What if...when we close are eyes in this world and open them in the next - when we feel His presence - His glory - His awesome love....it will be in that moment that we realize this is the reason we were created...to worship in His presence..we'll at last feel complete.
Only then will we realize that, that one perfect moment we waited our whole life will not last 60 seconds but will last forever!'.....

...beautiful words...

2007-04-05T01:53:00.000-07:00

A friend has ended an email today with some short, but magnificent lines from the 13th century Persian poet, Rumi

If you ask me
'How did Jesus raise the dead?'
I will kiss you on the lips,
and say 'like this'.

...and the trade goes on....

2007-03-31T03:21:00.000-07:00

...Many people find it hard to believe that slavery still exists. Whether it's bonded slavery with men, women and children toiling on plantations, in rice mills, brick kilns and many other industries; or, the deplorable and prevalent trade in humans to serve as sex slaves, slavery is flourishing in many parts of the world. It is still every bit as ugly as it was 200 years ago and it must end.

the passage above is taken from ....http://www.theamazingchange.com/

Carrying on Wilberforce's vision of mercy and justice, World Vision helps transform the lives of the world’s poorest children and families in nearly 100 countries, including the United States. Our non-profit work extends assistance to all people, regardless of their religious beliefs, gender, race, or ethnic background.
http://www.theamazingchange.com/worldvision.html

...it made me think...

2007-03-28T03:27:00.000-07:00

A good friend of mine - Chris - shared this quote recently from Jean Vanier which I found very challenging.

To laugh is to risk appearing the fool
To weep is to risk appearing sentimental
To reach out is to risk involvement
To disclose feelings is to risk disclosing your true self
To place your dreams before the crowd is to risk their love
To live is to risk dying
To hope is to risk despair
To try is to risk failure
But the greatest hazard is to risk nothing
The one who risks nothing, does nothing and has
Nothing - and finally is nothing
They may avoid sufferings and sorrow,
But simply cannot learn, feel, change, grow or love
Only one who risks is free

Jean Vanier

...some more photos....

2007-03-28T03:01:00.000-07:00

...Hello again!

2007-03-23T08:46:00.000-07:00

I love the writings of the late Henri Nouwen and read a book that a friend had brought to one of the silent retreats I’ve been to recently…which said…

‘Perhaps the best definition of redeeming revelation is the uncovering of the truth that it is safe to love. The walls of our anxiety, our anguish, our narrowness are broken down and a wide endless horizon is show. We love because He first loved us. It’s safe to embrace in vulnerability because we both find ourselves in loving hands. It is safe to be available because someone told us that we stand on solid ground. It is safe to surrender because we will not fall into a dark pit but enter a welcoming home. It is safe to be weak because we are surrounded by a creative strength’.

…..I’ve re-read that paragraph so much lately and every time…I see another little sparkle!

….have a special weekend!

...a lovely St Patrick's Day

2007-03-20T07:18:00.000-07:00

I was off work yesterday and it was lovely!
Went into town for breakfast...
Spent the afternoon swimming with my neice...
Went to the movies and for coffee in the evening...
a lovely day!

What did you do yesterday? Leave a wee comment and let me know!

...that's what friends are for...

2007-03-20T07:10:00.000-07:00

I love Charlie Brown..and Snoopy cartoons and

on one occasion, Peppermint Patty said to Marcie: “I’d like to read this book, Marcie, but I’m kind of afraid. I had a grandfather who didn’t think much of reading.” She continued by saying, “He always said that if you read too many books, your head would fall off.”
Marcie responds, “you start the first chapter, and I’ll hold onto your head!”

I love the idea that whatever my friends are doing...that they'll have someone to hold them up when they're feeling down!

...holiday memories!

2007-03-14T08:54:00.000-07:00

...just came across some photos taken in Italy last summer - ahhhh - to be there right now...but at least I can dream!!

How to be miserable in 20 easy steps!

2007-03-13T02:18:00.000-07:00

1. Use "I" as often as possible.
2. Always be sensitive to slights.
3. Be jealous and envious.
4. Think only about yourself.
5. Talk only about yourself.
6. Trust no one.
7. Never forget criticism.
8. Always expect to be appreciated.
9. Be suspicious
10. Listen greedily to what others say about you.
11. Always look for faults in others.
12. Shirk your duties if you can.
13. Do as little as possible for others.
14. Never forget a service you may have rendered.
15. Sulk if people are not grateful for your favors.
16. Insist on consideration and respect.
17. Demand agreement with your own views on everything.
18. Always look for a good time.
19. Love yourself first.
20. Be selfish at all times.

Spring has sprung...

2007-03-12T08:19:00.000-07:00

..took these on my lunchtime - gorgeous or what!?

...another special chat...

2007-03-12T03:59:00.000-07:00

...with a very special friend.

On paper - this friendship seems like it should never have survived! Differences in age, experience and background...but this lovely friendship is almost a decade old...and we treasure it every time we get together. We hadn't really anything planned for Saturday evening but we ended up eating (as usual!) and what a wonderful time we had. We talk about everything...work..family..books..movies..theatre..what makes us laugh and cry..our hopes and fears..faith..our childhoods..whatever comes to mind at that moment. It's cool to be totally yourself with someone...no masks...saying exactly what you're feeling without fear of judgement - what a gift!

So...in case you didn't know already...Thanks Mr P!

One more thing....

2007-03-09T06:37:00.000-08:00

...something I read this week...

when we are real - a Lenten reflection -

Someone once said that to recognise the signs of God, pay attention to your stirrings. Look closely when you feel the swell of joy within, or the tightness as your throat closes up in sorrow. Live in that moment, poke around in its corners, and feel the texture of its walls. Sit with it for a while, long enough to sense the presence of God sitting with you.

Have a great weekend!

2007-03-09T06:14:00.000-08:00

2007-03-09T05:50:00.000-08:00

Oh dear! Let's try again! (Not too good at this photo thing!)

2007-03-09T05:46:00.000-08:00

Just some photos...

2007-03-08T07:57:00.000-08:00

from my newly purchased camera...

...try this!

2007-03-06T06:27:00.000-08:00

...I love asking a young child 'what age do you think I am?' - I did this recently with a 7 year old from church...and he looked at me for a moment...tilted his head this way and that..smiled and said 'I think you're 24!' ... I love that child!!! Needless to say - even when I reverse the digits - I'm still older but it did make me smile.

My neice (11 years!) and I were attending an event at her school a few months back and I tried to get dressed a little more 'trendy' than usual. She arrived to take me and her eyes widened...she bite the inside of her lip and whispered 'Are you going to wear that?' I obviously saw something else when I looked in the mirror!!! Oh well...at least I have a nice personality!!

...let the reading begin...

2007-02-28T06:57:00.000-08:00

I could never quite figure out the purpose of a book group … that is…until I joined one a year ago. Well …’joined’ is not really the word – we ‘formed’ one – six ladies – friends for ages and needing an excuse for a 6 weekly coffee and chat! What better a way to always have a diary date that to put it under the heading of a book group! Genius!

Actually it’s been fantastic to read books that I personally would have never thought of picking off the shelf. So far we’ve managed the following….

Never let me Go - Kazuo Ishiguro

The Secret Life of Bees – Sue Monk Kidd

Winter Queen - Boris Akunin

With their Backs to the World - Asne Seierstad

Kite Runner - Khaled Hosseini

The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox - Maggie O'Farrell

The Blind Assassin - Margaret Atwood

Where they were missed – Lucy Caldwell (not finished reading this yet!)

….I hope we can keep this little gathering up this year…and if you’re not in a group right now…don’t wait to join an existing one – get one up and running yourself – people are just waiting to be asked!!

Happy reading….Mo

PS If you’ve any suggestions…let me know…as we’re always looking for new titles!

I LOVE THIS TIME OF YEAR!

2007-02-26T08:08:00.000-08:00

...had a relaxing weekend doing absolutely nothing! Well...not exactly nothing...but almost nothing...ahhh - we all need some weekends like that! There's something about a crisp spring-like day that puts a smile on my face...hope all is well with you! Let me know!

PS...this is not my garden - wish it was!

Oh..I loved these poems....

2007-02-22T01:51:00.000-08:00

my friend just emailed this link and I just love these...

Poems: "Essential" and "Employed" by Beverly Rollwagen,
from She Just Wants.
© Nodin Press.

Essential

She just wants to keep her essential
sorrow. Everyone wants her to
be happy all the time, but she doesn't
want that for them. There is value in
the thread of sadness in each person.
The sobbing child on an airplane, the
unhappy woman waiting by the phone,
a man staring out the window past his
wife. A violin plays through all of them,
one long note held at the beginning and
the end.

Employed

She just wants to be employed
for eight hours a day. She is not
interested in a career; she wants a job
with a paycheck and free parking. She
does not want to carry a briefcase filled
with important papers to read after
dinner; she does not want to return
phone calls. When she gets home, she
wants to kick off her shoes and waltz
around her kitchen singing, "I am a piece
of work."

REMEMBER....

2007-02-17T03:57:00.000-08:00

Friends....books....coffee...these are a few of my favourite things!

2007-02-17T03:39:00.000-08:00

I've had the lovely pleasure of sitting chatting - over coffee of course! - with a few very close friends in the past couple of weeks and they just do not know what it means to me! These people make me feel good ... that's the only way I can really describe it. We discuss small things - the weather...books...movies...food ...we discuss big things like work...friendship....family...and we ponder the issues that some people never get around to - like feelings...fears...realness! I also appreciate those friends I've made through this blog - they are the unseen friends who are there at the end of the email...'listening' to my problems and encouraging me with kind words. Thank you too!

It may have been Valentine's Day with no cards...but sometimes I feel more connected with others on a deep, meaningful level - than some of the married couples I know!

...thanks to all for their friendship and smiles!

...a strange little week...

2007-02-17T03:27:00.000-08:00

...not going into a lot of details - but lots of work-related stress being dealt with .... feeling a little on the fragile side this past week. Today is slightly more relaxed and I'm now feeling 'on the up' again...yeah!

...silence is golden!

2007-02-01T06:43:00.000-08:00

...Looking forward to a partial silent retreat from tomorrow evening! I will be having some quiet time this weekend...but I am also helping to prepare some of the Saturday meals..and I have to get instructions whispered to me!! I like this arrangement as I get the best of both worlds. The weather (so says the radio) will be calm and quite mild for Feb...lovely.

Had another thought provoking on Tues evening when our band of friends met for a meal and some chat. We had all decided to have a look at the feeding of the 5,000 and there were some lovely insights of the various people around the room. My thoughts always seem to come as questions! The two main questions I asked myself in the past week were 1. What/who 'feeds' me? 2. How do I 'feed' others? I may bring those with me on the weekend ahead and ponder them further.

Work has been busy...but a good busy! Stressful..but a good stressful and having spent a wee bit of time looking into the eyes of the nursery children...I feel blessed! They may not have the ability to communicate but oh...those eyes speak volumes!

blessings....MOJO

The beauty of creation....

2007-01-29T06:22:00.000-08:00

Since getting my little (cheap) digital camera...I seem to be seeing beautiful spaces in my daily routine. I walk at lunch times around the local area where I work and I've been looking at trees...a pond with ducks...the sky...even local houses and shop fronts...with more interest than usual! I love this new way of looking at things - it's exciting! Unfortunately I can only post photos at a local library - the office computer won't let me ... for some unknown reason! I'll try to post a few sometime soon.

Hope all my friends in blogland are well...let me know!

Bye for now...MOJO

Why are we frightened?

2007-01-20T04:09:00.000-08:00

Last Tues evening my little group of friends were discussing various topics...and I shared some questions with them that I've been asking myself recently. These are a group of people - some of whom I've known for years and yet still I hold back on 'being me'...why? So some of my questions to myself are..

...why do put people on pedestals?
...why do I let others intimidate me?
...why do I apologise for what I believe?
...why do hide behind a mask?
...why do I not trust people who will love me no matter what?
...why do I think my views are sometimes not worth putting across?

.....mmmm....still mulling these things over....

Be thou my Vision....

2007-01-20T04:00:00.000-08:00

....I've always loved this hymn but especially the line...Thou my soul’s Shelter, Thou my high Tower:Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power...

and when I sing it...I always think of Glendalough in the South of Ireland ...close to place where I served on a mission team for year...ahhhh....wish I was there right now!

Be Thou my Vision, O Lord of my heart;Naught be all else to me, save that Thou artThou my best Thought, by day or by night,Waking or sleeping, Thy presence my light.
Be Thou my Wisdom, and Thou my true Word;I ever with Thee and Thou with me, Lord;Thou my great Father, I Thy true son;Thou in me dwelling, and I with Thee one.
Be Thou my battle Shield, Sword for the fight;Be Thou my Dignity, Thou my Delight;Thou my soul’s Shelter, Thou my high Tower:Raise Thou me heavenward, O Power of my power.
Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,Thou mine Inheritance, now and always:Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,High King of heaven, my Treasure Thou art.
High King of heaven, my victory won,May I reach heaven’s joys, O bright heaven’s Sun!Heart of my own heart, whatever befall,Still be my Vision, O Ruler of all.

...for all the visitors to my blog...

2007-01-13T04:17:00.000-08:00

...unfortunately I didn't pen this myself...but I loved the words and thought it would be nice to share it!

A happy week...

2007-01-13T04:01:00.000-08:00

Well...as you can see from the picture...I finally figured out how I can combine my love of art and coffee!!! Needless to say...my New Year resolution of cutting down on coffee has failed miserably!!

I had a lovely week...Monday evening I invited a good friend round for coffee (see coffee again!!).. She has two little boys under 5 and is always on the go...so we spent a couple of hours...with soft lights...scented candles and Ella Fitzgerald playing the background. It's amazing how much you can share with another person in such a short space of time. Tuesday evening was spent with my group of amazing friends - unfortunately for them I was on the cooking rota (poor things!). I managed to rustle up a reasonable stir fry and crusty bread...someone else came with a dessert and someone else with the wine. Wednesday evening I saw my niece for a little while and Thursday I went to hear a wonderful speaker we'd seen this year at the Greenbelt Festival in Cheltenham. Last night...I did absolutely NOTHING!! Ahhhh....a good week...how was yours??

Until next time...

...frozen toes!

2007-01-09T02:57:00.000-08:00

...my heating system at home hasn't been working for the past week so needless to say I've been a little chilly of late! I was lent an electric heater and sitting (like a granny!) with a woolen blanket round my knees whilst watching television! Thankfully the workman has now restored at least some of the radiators so I'm thawing out now.

Hope your New Year has started on a positive note. I'm feeling quite up at the moment. Lots of things happening both at work and socially. I'm really looking forward to starting some study on comtemplation with my Tuesday friends (10 friends who commit to meet each week for a lovely meal and a lovely time of sharing!).

I'm also thrilled to see a little bit of brightness return to the skys as I'm walking home from work these evenings. I'm really not a winter...dark nights...doors closed sort of person. Seeing Spring far off in the distance is like present waiting to be opened...the anticipation is there already!! I've also planted dozens of bulbs in my tiny garden and they've been poking their little heads out of their beds (flower beds that is!) and whispering 'I'm gonna get up soon!'...'can hardly wait!

Well...blessings for the remainder of the week folks! Bye for now.

Hi from a sunny Belfast!

2007-01-06T03:54:00.000-08:00

I think I may have figured out this photo thing...let's see!

New Year...new look blog!

2007-01-04T07:25:00.000-08:00

Hi all...hope your Christmas was special as you are! Into the New Year with gusto...with new challenges and new friends. Any resolutions? A couple of mine are to walk more...paint more...contemplate more...and try to drink less Americano coffee!!

I had a restful and happy time...now back to work and the holiday season seems a long way back! Still desperately trying to post photos...I can never see the icon on my blog to do this..although people in the past have tried to talk me through the process ...oh well - maybe one day I'll figure it out! I purchased a new digital camera and think I'm wonderful now because I've taken at least two nice shots!

Well...the filing on my desk is calling loud and clear and I've been ignoring it all day. Bye for now...MOJO

....have a peaceful time....

2006-12-22T04:03:00.000-08:00

...at this special time of the year.

My prayer ....

May we balance our laughter with some moments of quietness...
May we talk to our Lord as much as we talk to our friends...
May we attend to ourselves as much as we attend to others...
May we think of those who are hungry when we ourselves feel full...
May we think of the lonely when we are surrounded by loved ones...
May the Lord of Light help you see the sunshine through the showers...
God bless
xmojo

Happy Monday!

2006-12-18T07:31:00.000-08:00

...yes, you've guessed it...I'm in a good mood today!! I guess a lot has got to do with the weekend past. Actually it was lovely because it ended up not being a silent retreat for me after all! My friend who organises it was able to include me in the team of 'workers'. So I got a chance to see the 'behind the scenes' action. Lots of meal preparations, serving those on the retreat, clearing up, taking part in the times of reflection when we get to speak but they don't! It was a privilege and joy to do it. I did get to have some time in quiet...to read...and write and walk in THE most beautiful unspoilt countryside....ahhh...

This week in work will be clearing up all the yucky admin jobs I've left from the beginning of the month...you know the sort I mean...don't you!?

Hope all is well in blogland....keep in touch - bye for now...a happy little person....x

....Silence is golden...

2006-12-14T07:25:00.000-08:00

....I'll be off to rural Ireland tomorrow (half day off work...yeah!) for my third silent retreat of the year. After a hectic few months - I am soooo looking forward to the solitude. Will catch up again next week...have a great weekend everyone!

....something about a meal....

2006-12-13T07:47:00.000-08:00

...there's just something about sitting around a table of friends that really for me comes close to heaven! We gathered together last night before a friend travels to Canada for Christmas and we had a rare old time! Lots of lovely dishes...savoury and sweet...a lot of laughing....shining eyes as we all opened our 'secret santa' presents (where we pick a name out and buy for that person - of course - by the end of the evening everyone knew who had purchased what for whom!!). I was delighted with my lovely present - wrapped beautifully - containing candles...the most gorgeous Celtic style stone angel...a hand knitted autumny coloured scarf and a little book...Loved it all! We all looked about 6 years old as we were opening (I know it's a little early for Christmas!) our presents. It was a delight.

We then decided to have our 'Top 5' lists for the year - Top 5 books....cds....movies etc. I find it pretty hard to come up with my favourites....so much to choose from. I did love 'The Cloister Walk' a book by Kathleen Norris...really enjoy the music of Sufjan Stevens...local Belfast artist Duke Special...was challenged by 'The Constant Gardener' movie. How would your favourites of the year look I wonder...let me know!

Well...for now - blessings!

'appreciate your comments

2006-12-07T00:53:00.000-08:00

...I know I shouldn't really need reassurance to continue my blogging now and then - but thanks to those who have encouraged me to keep going - despite my silly notions (I'm a girly deep down!). So onward and upward...here goes Thursday...

My boss is away to a meeting most of the day which leaves me free to get caught up with some stuff before Christmas break. But a few highlights of the week so far...

Got together with a group of friends the other night and we were discussing the issue of money and how we use it...think about it...how influenced people are to 'keep up with the guy next door'. A very frank and open sharing of those who have money...those who have less money...those who have none to speak of - looking at what that means within our little community. It's a subject that people keep private most the time...but it's been refreshing to chat about the possibilities.

Tonight I'm going to my little neice's school for a talent show...should be fun.

Met up with a lovely lady I used to work with for a cuppa - it's great to be able to pick up just where we left off over a year ago. Some people are so easy to talk to and you know that they listen intently and just know the right things to say.

Hope all is well with my blogger friends...do take care of you wee selves...and once again thanks for reading and responding...

bye for now.....Mojo

Mojo's Place

2006-12-06T06:39:00.000-08:00