Many poets write with the intention of allowing the reader to freely interpret as they see fit. and that is fine. However, my poems are written so that the reader will understand my life a little and, by association, perhaps pause for thoughts about their own life. With that goal in mind, many poems in “Just Thinking” are introduced with a brief overview of the related circumstances.
My life, probably like yours, has had its traumas; successes; failures; celebrations and disappointments. My life, probably like yours, is an ongoing course of learning. This book could well be the perfect catalyst to start some introspective thinking.
The following “Just Thinking” reviews are from amazon.com
“In today’s busy, stressful world we all need time to take a breather. This book is the perfect thing for that. Sit back and lose yourself for a few moments or longer. Let Colin’s words from his heart speak to your heart. Grab a tissue for some poems and be ready to smile at others, as you find yourself identifying with the emotions brought out in the beautiful poetry. The stunning cover brings peace and that peaceful feeling continues through the pages of this heartwarming book.”
“Mellow observations written while in the midst of restless times. Covers a cross section of experiences over multiple stages of live…I appreciate that sense of ‘circle of life’ perspective. Read this at one sitting or choose bits to read while sipping your favorite beverage. Worth the read as well as the price – especially as a portion of the proceeds goes towards a good cause. Thanks, Colin!”
“This is such a sweet collection of beautiful thoughts and sentiments and reflections. The people and stories and memories are so real and tangible, easy to connect with, easy to read. For each poem I have read so far, it’s like he is talking about someone I know… or someone I would want to know 🙂 This books explores so many things, takes you on so many journeys.. the good and the bad and the beauty in between. This book was given as a gift, and it’s one I will treasure!”
Footnote: Due to the prohibitive costs of making this book available for worldwide distribution, “Just Thinking” is now only available direct from Friesen Press. Click book cover in right column for link to Friesen Press.
My dog looks like your dogs twin!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
I hope that it is just as special! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
He is.. Our son found him on the street. He is the most affectionate dog we have. He also talks!!! he carries on a regular conversation every night!!! I just wish we could talk “golden/shepherd”!!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Ray is also quite vocal at times and, yes, it would be wonderful to hear them tell their particular story wouldn’t it.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Absolutely!! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
By any chance, do you know the about age of Ray. He looks young but by chance could he be shy of 10. I adopted my dog that looked and was extremely similar sounding all the way to the touch sensitivities and emotions, from Aylmer Ontario in October 2008. I think they’re related. Or at least have journeyed the same areas and experiences. His heart forever changed mine. The best thing.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Hi Danielle – Ray’ full story is in his book “Who Said I was up for Adoption?” (see page of same name in Blog) however, to answer your question – He was picked up as a stray in the 9th Line and Upper Middle Road area of Oakville, along with a similar looking dog, in November 2012. Based on the condition of his teeth at that time, he was estimated at 2 years old.
LikeLiked by 1 person
wow this page is like asking, “come here, lets sit and talk a bit about dogs or inspirational things or…” I have yet to read your old posts so Maybe I shall come back to this page later!? this is wonderful
LikeLiked by 2 people
I am so glad that you found it interesting. Please feel free to wander around here whenever you have some free time! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hi Colin and a Hi to your sweet Ray!
Hope both of you are doing well..
I had been away and still couldn’t get back to reading the blogs as I used to in the past.
And I am missing a whole load of interesting stories.. ;(
For now, I am just grabbing tiny bits here and there.. Hope to get through more than that real soon.. 😉
I had been reading your posts through reader so far and I am visiting your blog just today I think.. 🙂
Interesting to know about your first booka and Good luck.. 🙂
I was feeling bit weird when I started up a page with the idea of having a space dedicated just for talks.. Though there were few convos there, I have realised one thing by now.. It usually and almost always happens only in the comments of posts.. Let that be a simple hi or for discussions upon the post. The conversations grows and goes far beyond topic of the post but still under the post.. 😛
Now I hope you could understand my joy in discovering a similar page in here.. 🙂 To me, this is like having a little room opened for everyone who wishes to drop in just for visiting me and for those who don’t care on invites to the parties held.. 😉
Feeling better to know that I am not alone in thinking of a page like this.. 🙂
Thanks for this space and open invite.. 😉
Happy Weekend and ahead!!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well thank you so much for dropping by and any time you want to initiate a dialogue here, just let me know. For your information, I still have total control over Posts as moderator but, to date, I am happy to say that with over 12 months of blogging behind me, I have only chosen to block 1 Post. Blogging certainly seems to encourage interesting and educational conversations.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Of course we have the moderating control over the comments. I must have mentioned clearly that, though the conversation moves apart, it is interesting and intriguing.. Why else would there be a conversation flowing otherwise.. 😉
Times ago, I used to think that the comments are to be related to the post and has to stay that way all through. Now I am understanding that the comments are related to the blogger and not just to that post. 🙂
And now I am looking forward for the comments section as much as the posts as they give away more perspectives and more interesting stuff.. 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people
Absolutely agree regarding the Comments sections. If I never received any Comments, then clearly nobody related to what I was writing, which would beg the question why do I bother? As you are aware, it is really interesting what thoughts and perspectives are displayed in the Comments!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Exactly.. That is where the appreciation of variety as well as like mindedness happens! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Hey Colin, what a wonderful idea for a page–a great place for jumping into conversations and mixing. It’s like being invited to a cocktail party without the cocktails and after-six attire. You must post a conversation opener or two…
I’ll start…your dog photo on your blog banner is irresistible (reminds me of my childhood dog) and the reason I decided to spend my morning commenting on your blog instead of, well, writing. However, I am not alone as a writer with an affliction for procrastination–I heard it’s an inherent part of the occupation.
Keep blogging!
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well clearly you are having fun (and a break from writing) here. The strength of the photo that you reference is (to me) the eyes. If that makes sense to you, go to the Home page and in the search field (upper right) enter Big Brown Eyes. I think you will like that Post! 🙂
As for mixing? I have a wonderful group of Followers regularly visiting the various Categories and so often, an interesting dialogue starts! As you say, a cocktail party without the cocktails and no dress code. 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
I think this is a great idea — having a special page to expand your blog. You actually have two other pages, don’t you? I’m thinking of doing something like this myself, so let me know how it works for you. I’d be very interested in knowing.
LikeLiked by 2 people
Yes…. 3 Pages – Dear Diary, Dog Stories & Just Thinking. Note that the Pages only introduce the subject. Functionality is triggered by the Categories so Page = Category. The only downside is that WP will only allow a Follow by Blog and not by Category or Page however, so far no problems.
LikeLiked by 2 people
I’m down to follow anyone who can kick my ass before I’ve had my second cup of coffee. 😉
LikeLiked by 3 people
The problem with Following is………. do you really know where they are going? If you cannot answer that with a “Yes” …… then are you really up for the adventure? Welcome to meandray.com ………. your one stop shop for anything to do with a large dog with attitude, some (hopefully) thought provoking writings and some answers to a question you may soon be asking …… who is he anyway?:)
LikeLiked by 3 people
This depends on where your followers might be, and how many hours before your second cup of coffee you’d care to be kicked…
From just another fellow writer (who happens to be on Pacific Standard Time) that totally gets your sentiment and the motivation we give each other in this wacky worldwide WordPress community. 🙂
LikeLiked by 3 people
Lol Hi Kennedy! 🙂
LikeLiked by 1 person
Wishing you every success with this new page to your already popular blog, I’ll be calling round on a frequent basis
LikeLiked by 2 people
Well thank you. I just hope that I can keep up with the two Categories and still have a life!:)
LikeLike
LOL 🙂
LikeLiked by 2 people