4TH OF JULY TRIBUTE TO MY FRIENDS AT HUB PAGES
70Love, Life, Happiness
Dear Hub Friends,
As the celebration of our nation quickly approaches; this 4th of July, when we are thankful for our freedom; while we recognize that our freedom of expression is such a gift; one our forefathers fought long and hard to provide us then and now; I want to share with you, my friends and fabulously creative writers, how thankful I am for having ‘met’ you. The words you’ve written, the ideas, thoughts, honesty, and self exposure I’ve found in the volumes of beautiful work here are a big part of what I am extremely thankful for, today. To have come into contact with such “human” human beings; intelligent, wistful, opinionated, irate, loving, yearning, building and creating people who have colored my daily life in such a big way.
I look forward, each morning with my cup of rich, dark, freshly ground coffee, to sharing this time with my Hub friends. First thing I do is wake up my computer and direct it to Hub Pages. What is Chatkath up to? How has she shared with us, today, ways in which to appreciate our lives? This woman who sacrifices much so that she can help her animal friends! What has Sharyn to say this morning; in all her sage and vulnerable words which are often so honest, so poetic and powerful? She does not fear bearing life's foibles and missteps. I respect her for this. Has Bobbi another opinion with which I relate so strongly? What a fearless writer she is! Dim Flaxenwick! Sweet, vulnerable, open, truthful, self analytical words come from this tender writer. Always with a twist of 'light at the end of the tunnel' in the closing lines. I think of Dim as an open book. Epigramman!!! So profound and, at the same time, his words so simply written. He has a natural ability with his astounding verses and clever words. Mr. Eman shares selflessly; He is surely one of a kind! Immeasurable! JY! Always a student of this man’s fantastic writing; always learning something new, something exciting and thrilling! Alastar…wandering in the outposts of our existence, questioning with such an open mind; whose sensitivity is quite touching and who writes on so many and varied topics! Multifaceted!! Truckstop Sally! A writer and woman who has shared so much of her gift(s) with others both here on Hub Pages and in the” real” world with students who need such an attentive and caring teacher. Marie..marcoujor…what a friend I’ve found in this fabulous writer….warm and loyal as well as imaginative in her writing; a “got your back” kind of friend! She’s seen the worst and made it the best! AA Zavalla! His writings for college assignments are without compare! Detailed, erudite!, outlined and explained so even a novice such as myself can follow; as well as being sensitive to the nth degree; a lover of love.…DzzyMzLizzy…what a talent and intelligent writer who loves knowledge and kitties…that’s a win win in my book!, Lorlie! I started reading Lorlie's hubs long ago and realized what a vulnerable, sensitive and amazingly intelligent talent she was/is. An "old soul." VietNamVet68...oh, that you have lived through so much and come so far…with love in your heart and a beautiful gift of words to impart to those of us who did not see ‘that’ part of this life…Sunnie Day! WOW! What an AUTHOR! Yes..you’re THERE !! SD possesses the gift of love for all…And Eiddwen, with a beautiful, sweet and sensitive soul who exudes love to all and who shares so much of herself with us. Amy…my hub pages sister and soul sister who, through so many challenges, continues to create the most profound, moving poetry about real life experience…what a talented woman! Teylina; she who wanders in the physical as well as fantasy world…so much to experience ! Devil may care attitude which is very much understood by this writer. Always Exploring..what a wonderful wit and way with words which seem to come so easily in poetic verse. A natural and a delightful writer!
There are many more wonderful people here who I am just beginning to know; who have taken the time to visit my efforts and who have, kindly, offered words of support and recognition. I am so deeply grateful that you’ve chosen to read my words and follow my work…you make the act of putting oneself ‘out there’ easier and not so scary! I know I will get to know you more and more as time goes by through your heartfelt, exciting, thought provoking and interesting work
I am making every effort to keep up with all the incredible creations which have been shared here on Hub Pages. The more authors I meet, the fantastic photographers, painters, sketchers; artists all; the more I want to indulge myself by reading all day long; visiting each and every one of you to be sure not to miss a single word or image you’ve placed on Hub Pages for us. This is like an “all you can eat” diner…there is always more we want; more to consume; more to digest…all tasty bits of lives, loves, experiences, questions, musings and more…by the delightful authors of HP’s.
When I feel alone, lonely, removed…I come here to this ‘home’ away from but within my own. I open up the world through the eyes of my fellow hubbers. I no longer feel apart; I feel a part of something. Inevitably, I find that one of my favorites has written a story; a poem, verse or thesis which resonates with me. I devour the words; feel what the author is trying to communicate, and come away, satisfied. Sometimes saddened, sometimes enraged, sometimes hopeful, sometimes encouraged and sometimes discouraged….and ALWAYS feeling as if I’ve learned something new; seen another’s point of view, considered an alternative possibility … having opened a new door…to have found an answer to or, perhaps, be spurred on to ask another question.
Always illuminating!
In the midst of so much which is uncertain in the world and in personal lives; finding solace, bonding and friendship here on Hub Pages has, oftentimes, quelled a building emotional turmoil; filled in the blanks and stilled my beating heart. And, so often, reading words here has done just the opposite; brought me to tears, caused outbursts of roaring laughter, made me sit back in awe, encouraged me to ask and question and brought me, literally, to my knees in thankfulness for heartfelt honesty, for placing yourselves in the "line of fire," for speaking and standing up for your beliefs and others', for baring souls and sharing the spectrum of emotions.
So much has been inspired by my fellow writers; ones whom I’ve grown to rely upon in comments and who have “stuck” by me and whom I feel as if I know..and the new writers who I am just beginning to enjoy.
I want to say, Thank you! For having that little extra special “it” that brought you here to try out something new…to being open and willing to fail or succeed…for being uniquely you! By the list of those whom I’ve remembered here, it is easy to see how very varied and interesting are the offerings you’ve written. Amazing!!
Well, with this, I will publish this…with huge apologies to whomever I may have skipped..,.believe me, everything is in such an uproar right now, with papers, books, boxes, cats, dogs, and life spread every which way but loose…well, loose, too!!!!!! You are not overlooked or forgotten or un appreciated…I am just cluttered and in an upheaval!
Happy 4th of July, my friends!!
Kathy aka Lucky Cats
To my Friends and Companion Animals
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Oh Sunnie...What a sweet comment...this is why you are remembered here...Sunny Sunnie Day! thank you so much. What a wonderful world we have here on HP's...how lucky can we be? much love and respect! Kathy
I am deeply touched by this hub Lucky. Not only with your warmth,caring and love of all life but your sensitivity and empathy to others. You are definitely one of a kind and I am honored to know you and the effort you put into your work. I'm sure all the other friends you have mentioned here feel the same.
I am incredibly humbled by your words, Kathy, thank you for the mention! You are too kind, and I mean that in terms of the love you display for God's creatures. The photos you've shared here put a huge smile on my sleepy face here in the morn of July 4th-Independence Day will be all the more meaningful for me. Thanks for giving so much to the furry ones!!
Try this out-post, kind Kathy. For the last couple of days the muse has been sending impulses to write some kind of tribute to the great friends on HP. But I just couldn't form the proper way. Now all is clear as I know all things are connected. However there was a start to something different which may be done anyway. Your love is an exceptionally strong force that those tuned in can at times, palpably sense. How pompous and stupid of me to ever second guess anything you do in regards to your special charges. This is an old one but I've never used it before on HP. Thank you Kathy from the very deepest bottom of my heart.
ps- every thing is in order concerning that HP affair now.
Kathy, I'm blushing. I never thought it was possible in a family friendly setting.
My impression of you? Your like a modern day Bridgette Bardot. A timeless beauty whose heart aches for those who've been thrown away, abandoned, abused. You wear your heart on your sleeve, and are true to your beliefs and friends.
I remember when I first arrived at one your hubs. I have a confession, I was mesmerized by your piercing blue eyes. To me they looked like blue sapphires set in a beautiful face surrounded by blazing red hair. Then I read your hubs, and was touched by your efforts to save every rescue you could find. And I especially enjoyed your recollections and pictures from the past.
I look for your hubs when published, and I'm glad to be considered a friend.
Lucky Cats, what a wonderful hub! What a beautiful heart you have.
Oh, Kathy, thank you so much for the beautiful words. I adore your own photos, as they reflect all of the love you give your critters with their obvious devotion plain to see. That baby squirrel is TOO cute. "Bandit" has got one adorable, expressive face. And it looks like you have a Golden Retriever?
I've never met anyone with a bigger heart than you, my dear friend and sister. I talked to my mom today and the heat here was 107 (with the humidity). She is so stubborn and went outside and found a downed tree branch and drug it down the hill to the woodpile. She couldn't catch her breath and it sounds like she passed out. When she was able she crawled to the house where she recovered alone. I am going to stay with her some, esp during the daytime, to make sure she doesn't over exert herself. I would never forgive myself if something happened again while she is alone. Thank you for listening, Kathy, as I know you understand my anxiety and concern. Love you, my friend.
...well I just danced all over the keyboard and pushed all four buttons like Liberace when he saw his favorite boy toy - lol lol - I will be posting this most beautiful hub to my Facebook page with a direct link back here for all of the world to see how special you are not only to me but your friends, followers and colleagues here at the Hub.
You and I, Kathy, had some great times together over the past year going back and forward with our comments - you have supported since day one and to be held in such high esteem as someone as talented and gifted as you is indeed a thrill, a honor and a blessing.
You and I are also kindred spirits because of our unconditional love for our pets - lucky them, lucky us - and lucky for those who know you ......lake erie time 9:30pm
Oh Kathy, I'm so sorry i'm late. My Son and his family were her visiting and i've been off line. What a wonderful pleasure to see my name listed along side of these beautiful people whom i so admire. Thank you my gifted writer friend. May you find complete happiness in your new home. Thank you again. I feel very blessed.
Kathy - Kathy - How lucky we all are, like your cats, to have met you! You are so much more than my crazy sister cat lady ;-) You are a caring soul and an incredibly talented writer and creator of a loving home and life that works for everyone. That is what brings you happiness and where you thrive!
These pictures are testimony to the harmony you inspire and the angel that you are!
I am so fortunate to have met you my friend Lucky Cats!!!
JY, you know how much I enjoy and respect your excellent skills; the stories, history...and I thank you so much for such a kind comment.
Lorlie...from day one, you impressed me w/your honesty and raw courage...I have so much respect for you. thank you for your wonderful words!
Alastar...you are an inigma! I'm so glad to hear that the dilemma you recently faced is corrected & recognition is as it should be and, believe you when you say, in a way, (said w/a wink!) "great minds think alike." Thank you!
Augustine; you DO wear your heart on your sleeve, my friend...in poetry and inner thoughts shared w/us. I am the one blushing, now...thank you so much for making me feel fine!
Catgypsy..of course, I love your name...and your writing and I am very pleased to be getting to know you!
Amy...oh my! Your mother must stop thinking she is able to do such things! In that crazy heat and humidity! It's like that here, in SE Kansas, too...absolutely energy zapping. I do know your situation...my father who, later in life, developed dementia...actually alzheimers..and he lived w/me...I was by his side 24/7 for 6 months...literally monitoring his every move as he was, at times, completely confused..he still wanted to drive and, of course, he couldn't...I'd let him do so, though, around my block w/me right by his side...he seemed to be satisfied w/this. Your mom is probably 'holding on to' an idea that she has abilities and strengths she no longer has (until, of course, she has that surgery or stint process..! fingers crossed) and can return to a more normal life...she must be patient until that time. This is such a huge burden on you...emotionally, in the realm of responsibility and, psychologically..."this is your mother; she's supposed to be strong, invincable..always there !" we, the children, will always believe this...it's scary;fearful..earth shaking, really. I remember feeling & thinking...'my parents are disabled now..they are no longer as they were...I am the adult! I am the adult?!!? How can that be? I don't feel that way!"
You have my prayers and the love of so many here, Amy...collectively; our energy and love will help you in whatever comes your way. Much respect & love my friend!
Epigramman, Eman,Colin...what would so many of us had done without you? Your sharing, your unselfish ways; introducing us to one another? and the beautiful words! We are so lucky that you are here...are you of this world? Sometimes, I think you must be an angel..really..one who gives and gives and, because of this; your kind and very appreciated words are so important to all of us...like that Bridge over Troubled Water....that is how you are.
Always....never never late...and, please know this: I wrote this Sunday while wondering what everyone would be doing on this Holiday..and it just flowed out...I only say this to illustrate just how easy it was to sit down and say this to my HP friends because it is TRUE...so easy..the truth...and, in a half hour...it was done...again, because of the inspiration of you and so many others...so very easy. Thank you for always writing such really cool, fun, creative verse ... I admire that !!
ChatKath...I love you, my dear...because of so many things and the last hub of yours telling us how to get out of our own way! just purrrfect! We shall get together when I'm finally settled...I can't wait.
Love, light, happiness and friendship to all you guys...this one is for YOU
!!!!!
Hi Kathy,
Thank you so much for the mention,I can't even begin to tell you how much I appreciate it.
You are indeed a beautiful and special person. i am glad that my story is helping others but I also have so much to thank all my friends here on HubPages for and you are most definitly one of those.
I don't think that I could even begin to say how much I treasure this, other than to say thank you for being you. Also your words on many an occasion have made me proud to be a member of this loving and caring community here on Hubpages !!
May your kindness and care carry on for a long time to come and may we also be here for one another for a long time to come also.
Thank you, take care and God bless my dear friend.
Eiddwen.
You know, Eiddwen; I think there is something almost magical about the grouping of people who are here at HP's...I've been on other sites and 'here and there,' but...I've not found such an incredibly loving group of souls elsewhere...not like here...somehow; we've all come to know one another on one level or another and we are not afraid to express love, adimiration and appreciation, respect and more...it is very unique, in my experience. Much love to you...just got some bad news about my kitty Sunny...have to run.
Oh Kathy,
It is very difficult to type with tears pouring down your face. I am absolutely amazed at the love and beauty of you, your words and this community. It is truly like no other and you have done a piece like no other! I join epi's effusiveness at hitting all of my keys as well in the voting process! And you're right, I do "have your back"!
All my love, Maria (marcoujor)
Marie, my dear...I could not have said any of this if it were not true...since it is...easy as pie! That's the edible kind. Thank you so much for everything and, hey, I'm reading your really great work on Novelty....and, yes, you DO always say "take care of yourself." I am enjoying your writing, your excellent ability to share so well and so beautifully written..and the personal side...amazing, Marie! GOOD for you! You are, indeed, very very busy these days and I am so impressed with your Professional side as well as the beautiful writing you do. Much love! Kathy
HI Kathy, What an honor I feel to be included with all your wonderful friends. You are such a wonderful soul with a loving and caring heart who loves to care for Gods creatures and lost animals. We hope you had a wonderful 4th.
God Bless
I wouldn't have said it if it were not true, my friend VietNamVet! Your stories, retelling of life's experiences, all the beautiful poems and words you've shared with us...how you have seen so much and are not hardened to the core is beyond me...and the knowledge of what we, humans, do to oneanother and to have seen it firsthand in such an arena as you have....well, let me just say that I have the utmost respect for you on so many levels...your contribution here on HP's is enormous. I tried to link another writer to you a while back but the robo bot wouldn't let me and now I've forgotten his name but, he also writes about his experiences and the world so few of us are exposed to...if I can remember; I'll message you.
Thank you for your kind comment
! And you always end your words with God Bless...how wonderful is this?
Oh my gosh! What a thrill to see my name mentioned here among all the great hubbers you list. I am truly honored and love this hub. I adore your pictures of you and your animals. You have a very good heart, and I love that you include me in your list of friends. Bless you.
BobbiRant, from the beginning, I have admired your brave and 'no holds barred' writing, honest and from conviction and strong feelings. I respect this!~ So many hold back from speaking their minds; and this is a shame because, though we all differ from time to time, it is "ok" to agree to disagree and continue on in good spirits! You have opened up discussions which are heated, intriguing, stimulating and thought provoking. And now (which I failed to mention) you are a bona fide author! something we all aspire to...I sure would like to publish! so..of course you are here..you have been an inspiration to me...now, I must read what you've just published as I saw it when I came to HP's. Thank you for the kind words, Bobbi!!
OW! You really poured your heart and soul into this excellent hub.
I can so connect with that feeling of at first being scared to put your work ´´out there´´. I kept poems in a drawer for years,.but as you say, there´s something about hubpages that takes the fear away. We know we are among frends even though we´ve never met.
Thank you for such a great hub.
Dim, your writing speaks for so many..certainly, when I read your words of open honesty about life's fears, missteps, joys, sorrows, ups and downs...I feel as if you are talking to me...which is very very 'freeing.'
In all the great writers here, I have missed much of your wonderful work...and your big heart. I did that with Eiddwen, too...and others....so, I have made an "Editorial Decision!" I want you to re-read this hub, please.
thank you for the thumbs up!
I have edited this hub...you should take a look...
I.ve re-read it and thank you for such kind words. It says a lot about you, that you bothered to edit your hub to say such lovely things.
Take care
Dim x
Happy Happy, my friend Dim...you should have been here from the start. Bless you.
Dear Kathy,
I am so sorry I haven't commented much earlier here. I have been going through a rough time lately and not able to read much.
This piece is so beautiful and your love and spirit shines through so brightly. Thank you for this wonderful tribute.
Love,
Sharyn
Sharyn...hey! So glad that you are 'back' in whatever capacity you are able to fit in to your life. And, life is quite a battle sometimes, isn't it? that's why I recognized you as I have here in this little tribute...I know how hard, mean and crazy/cruel life can be...the flip side...wonderful/loving/ caring and supportive. Whatever you're going through...please know that you have support here...even though most of us have never met face to face..we seem to be an exceptional group w/lots of room for empathy. You've got it, my friend. Keep your chin up and...take care of yourself ... and do not hesitate to reach out for comforting conversation if/when ever!!!! Your friend, Kathy
Thank you Kathy. I so appreciate your friendship. I will call on you if need be. Thank YOU!
Sharyn
Lucky Cats, If our pets ever figure out how much we need them! omg , BLESS YOU FOR TAKING IN ALL THESE BEAUTIES. upps ,cap lock !Awesome hub!.....:-}
ahorseback..what a quote! "If our pets ever figure out how much we need them! omg" How TRUE! I've never ever heard it stated so simply and clearly...and I agree 1000% Thank you for your visit and for understanding the beauty of the human - animal relationship. an amazing everyday miracle that is, far too often, overlooked and undervalued. You obviously understand the wonder of it all. Bless you and thank you, again.
Kathy
Oh, Kathy, I've FINALLY gotten to this hub; I'm so far behind, and I'm reading new and also going back to end of June and working way forward: you HAVE heard of burning the candle at both ends? Well, I'm burning HP from both ends--quite interesting that way, actually! This was so great, and I was agreeing w/you all the way, and making notes about a couple of writers that seemed familiar but I couldn't place, so I can go back and hunt them down! We feel the same way about so many of these great people! Can't believe you took the time out of your busy, busy NON-schedule ???? to write this for us. I especially loved the paragraph that started something like-- "when I am alone, lonely, or remote..." (think remote was the word because it struck me so hard--such a perfect word). I think that para as well as the whole hub sums up one good reason I am so glad to be home. Now, to get another laptop! And I thank you for even including me with so many fantastic writers! I'm honored to be mentioned! Love your ending photo--so cooool! But I WANT A POSTER OF YELLOW GUY!
Sunnie Day Level 8 Commenter 10 months ago
Our Dear Kathy, AKA Lucky Cats,
What a beautiful hub you have written. When I started reading I had no idea that it was going to be such a wonderful heartfelt tribute for those of us on hub pages with you. You could feel the love and care that went into this..Let me tell you this..You bring much love and care with each post and your encouraging comments always make me feel better for reading it. You are such a gentle loving soul and it shines with in each written word. I love the picture of you and I can see the sweetness all over your face. I wish you many blessings and happy beginnings. Thank you for being here and thank you for bringing us into your life every day. It is truly an honor to know you here as a friend and fellow writer. Happy 4th!!!
God bless,
Much love,
Sunnie