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Thanks For The Omaha Zoo

Monday, November 3rd, 2008 by Alyice

Normally, I am not fond of zoos. I’ve been to plenty of zoos that break my heart—confined, dirty quarters and miserable animals. I understand the purpose behind the zoos—sanctuaries for endangered or injured species, educational facilities for conservation and research, and entertainment for the everyday person. But sometimes, the idea of locking up an animal can seem so very cruel; especially when the living arrangements are less than desirable.

The Omaha Zoo in Nebraska appears to be an exception. The caretakers seem to take pride in their zoo and most of the living quarters are breathtakingly beautiful. The animals appear to be healthy and happy and the living quarters appear clean, inviting, and quite spacious. And for that, I’m grateful and would happily visit again.

Besides, where else can you get up close and personal with creatures like this and not worry about your own personal safety or interfering with their natural habitat?

Give thanks…

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Thanks For The Support

Tuesday, October 28th, 2008 by Alyice

I feel blessed because I have a very supportive husband. My husband and I don’t always see eye-to-eye and we butt heads probably more than most married couples like to openly admit, but one thing we’ve always been good at is supporting each other. When my husband wanted to quit his job to return to college, I supported his decision. When he wanted to join gaming clubs or sports teams, I gave up precious time with him. Whenever I wanted to try a new business venture, my husband offered to work overtime to help get it started, watch the kids so I could have time to work, and even accompany me on a few assignments I was too uncomfortable going alone on.

And then when I tired of the business—even if it was producing an income—and wanted to try something new, he was right there supporting me again. Not once did he tell me to make a success of something and just stick to it. Not once did he discourage me from trying new things. Not once did he harp on the fact that I could never stay at something long before needing a change of pace.

Now, as I transition my life once again—to become a homeschooled art student—he’s once again lending a hand of support. And I couldn’t feel more fortunate to be married to this man. Yes, we don’t always see eye-to-eye. Yes, he doesn’t always know how to praise my accomplishments or do some of the other “mushy” things I wish he would do. But he sure knows how to support me and how not to discourage me.

Give thanks…

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Thanks For The Trees

Tuesday, October 21st, 2008 by Alyice

I have an infatuation with dead or dormant trees. There’s such character and strength within their naked limbs. They seem to cry out to me, calling me, beckoning me. Asking me to see them, to embrace them, to recognize them—asking me to care.

They remind me of the lost and lonely souls that walk our earth; the ones whom we see on a daily basis but are often too busy to care for, to interact with. How many times have we walked passed someone simply because they needed more of us than we could give? How many times have we turned the corner, hoping they didn’t see us, because we simply couldn’t be bothered? And yet, if we took a closer look, we’d see the beauty that lies within. We’d see the difference they have yet to make upon our lives, upon this earth.

And so it is with dormant and dead trees.

Give thanks…

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