1908

This postcard was used in 1908.  It appears Mr. Earl Fulk had a friend who liked to write upside down.

Ancient Mariner

I made a larger version of this to print for my wall after my recent re-reading of Coleridge's poem. I thought it would serve as a reminder to be gentle and kind in my dealings with others and the world around me.  (Bird image from The Graphics Fairy.)

Coleridge's poem Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner has always been one of my favorites.  My father recited bits and pieces of it to me throughout my childhood.  When I got older and finally sat down and read it through, I was impressed by its beauty as well as the thoughts and values expressed by it.

The Romantic movement in literature and art, with its emphasis on nature, appeals to me greatly.  Coleridge's poem ties the idea of the sacredness of nature to an almost medieval version of Christianity with saints and hermits and prayers to the Virgin Mary.  Harmony with nature and respect for it are equated with goodness.  It is also a tale of redemption in a way.  Through his experiences and the penance that follows them, the mariner not only redeems himself, but comes to have a greater understanding and love of nature.


The poem at Project Gutenberg

Shy lady

This image was taken from a turn of the century postcard in my collection.  I chose this one for the color of the lady's dress and her elaborate hair comb.  She looks to me as if she is not quite sure what to make of her suitor.  Note the sweet little bird couple in the nearby tree.

Sweet Spring

When I was a young girl, I hated spring. It was cold and damp, the flowers were slow to bloom, and the world was gray with a haze of green creeping over it far too slowly. Somehow I find that has changed now that I am a little older.

Spring is gray and cold in my part of the world, but it symbolizes so many things for me. Rebirth, new life and the power of nature and beauty shine through even the damp drear of springtime. Persistent, brave little flowers manage to peep out of the earth, although the temperature is discouragingly cold.

Life has many endings and many days without sunlight or cheer. New beginnings are difficult and the world is harsh and cold, yet beauty always manages to find its way.

details: tea and kisses

This little scene from my home includes a rather tiny thrifted Lenox china frame, a vintage teacup and a red votive holder.  An assortment of antique medicine bottles form the backdrop.  This shelf is constantly being re-arranged as we gather new objects and find new uses for the old ones, but I think the combination of gold and red here was very pretty.