Mercy Me

Things Ain't What They Used to Be

I had a wonderful weekend at the Antique Acres 58th Annual Old Time Power Show. My dad was participating in the blacksmith exhibition and, while I began my visit as an onlooker and event attendee, I wound up becoming his apprentice. What this holds for the future is that I will be learning the art of blacksmithing — first doing simple things with my Dad in his shop, and then taking a four-hour course with George Shimek, headmaster at Custom Blacksmithing in Waterloo, IA.

Thinking of wordsmithing in the context of blacksmithing has triggered some very interesting ideas in me about the composition of versed poetry. As always, more shall be revealed.

In the meanwhile, here is a photo study of the statue of St. Francis behind MercyOne hospital in Waterloo, IA. I am blessed that I am able to pray to St. Francis, lover of all Beings. Final images are of a cross I purchased at the fair.