Area for Rest and Prayer

Area for Rest and Prayer
At the 4.3 mile marker on the Farmington Canal Greenway in Hamden, CT

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Area for

96 comments:

Cliff the Caretaker said...

10/2/05 This new journal was launched on a beautiful fall Sunday. How appropriate. The morning was cool, the afternoon sun was strong and the evening has traces of both warm and cool breezes. The noise of nature is all around - the calling of birds and the rustling of the squirrels. The trail is still active with walkers, joggers and with the wiz of the bicyclists. One of the year's top 10 days. I thank God for offering me and my family the joy of life and this beautiful day.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/02/05

I often stop by here to pray a while. I feel the love that you put into this place and the generosity of your spirit. I like the natural setting - wooden bench, perenial plantings, trickling of the water in the stream. I can feel the quiet presence of God that lets me rest from bristling town life for a while. Thank you. My dog loves it too ! Sue, Hamden

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/04/05

I saw a snake in the water. Not a triangular head, so probably not poisonous. It made it's way slowly along just looking for a bit of lunch. Maybe he's thinking, "why can't we all just get along" Probably not. Life is less complicated for him than that. Sue, Hamden

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/05/05

We have thoroughly enjoyed this beautiful area you have created for everyone to enjoy. We have happy memories and wonderful stories because of it. This has enriched our lives. Thank You.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/07/05

Once again, thank you for this sanctuary. Sometimes I come when I'm particularly troubled. And when I leave I feel comforted. Please keep it simple and natural. I like feeling away from civilization.
Sue & Mayo-doggie

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/16/05

The soft breeze
Takes a leaf on a journey
Lifts its spirit
High into the heavens
Then lays it gently
To rest in a golden meadow.
To bask in the memory
of its purpose.
- To life and its great journey.

Brandon and Debra

Thank-you for this place to rest.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 10/17/05

What a wonderful gift & Idea! When I walk the trail it's like I'm in a state of prayer seeking a state of peaceful bliss and presto, I came upon this!
Thank you & God Bless,

(illegible) & Tammy

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 11/01/05

It must have snowed leaves last night - this beautiful, restful place is covered in golden leaves - oh what an Autumn sight.

CAP (cliff)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 11/13/05

This is such a beautiful place. We are truely blessed. Both of us have had a lovely time here and will come back again.

Liz and Pat

December 22, 2007

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 11/12/05

Bless you for providing this sanctuary. I'll be a bit late for work this morning, but I needed a few minutes with the sound of the stream & the peace of the snow.

Sue & Maya-doggie

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 12/15/05

Life is full of wonderful surprises if we keep our eyes and hearts open. This spot is another reminder for me. Thank you & bless you for creating it.

Jim E

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 12/25/05

Merry Christmas to all !

CAP (cliff)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 1/19/06

Thank you for this beautiful spot. It offers some peace during the obstacles in life, Be in the moment.

Dawn M.F.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 1/19/06

Happy New Year - Thank you for beautiful, peaceful space.

Marge & Bill Bethel, CT

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 3/2/06

Today's my 57th birthday so I took extra time to come down here even though it's a work day. The water sounds are wonderful, but Maya-doggie is whinning & restless, so we won't linger. God Bless Sue

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 3/15/06

This oasis from the day
a charming place
gives me and my dogs "paws"
regarding the everyday graces of life. In loving kindness -
Char (and dojo and Sandy !)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on3/29/06

This is our first time here. Many more returns...The sun glistening on this nice day. Only a few more weeks until graduation !! But will be back alot after Graduation...That's Right !
Lisa (loves-(heart symbol)) Matt

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 4/2/06

What a beautiful gift you have given to the soul and the spirit. Now is a beautiful sunny afternoon and feel I'm taking a piece of this place with me. The sound of the water, the sound of silence. Thanks for this beautiful experience.
DIANA
P.S. God bless you for bringing peace and happiness to each person who enjoys this place.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on4/13/06

The Evening Primrose

Look how the sun sinks in the West,
and dew drops pearl the evenings breast
almost as pale as moon beams are
or its companionable star
The evening Primrose opens a new
its delicate blossoms to the dew
And hermit-like, Shining the light
Wastes it's fair bloom upon the night
Who blind fold to it's fond caresses
Knows not the beauty it posses
Thus it blooms on while night is by
When day looks out with open eyes
bashed by the gaze it cannot shun
it faints and withers and is gone.

Spring

Spring, the sweet Spring
is the years pleasent king
then blooms each thing
then maids dance in a ring
Cold does not sting
The pretty birds do sing
"cooko, jug-jug, Pu-we, to-wi-ta woo"
The fields breath sweet
The dasies kiss our feet
Young lovers meet
old wives a sunny sit
in every street these tunes our ears do greet
Cooko, jug-jug, Pu-we,to-wi-ta woo

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 4/13/06

I wish to anyone who may ever read this only beautiful things forever-because the trees and dear soft sky sit in glittering layers on the brook, because behind me I can hear the water singing, because I waited a long time for April and now it's here, because even here in this small space the entire earth has opened up its arms to us - because of all these things I wish you happiness and long hours spent with people you love & who love you.

Hannah

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 4/18/06

What a beautiful idea ! Life is short always love and be kind to everyone.

Sue (smiley face)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 5/19/06

Greetings from Taylor, Teretha, Azaria & Anthony

We just found this peaceful place while walking for exercise; this is now our spot. We will continue to visit & take time out to relax & think about all the good things that God has done for us.

Peace & Blessings !

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 5/20/06

Friends out for a walk to exercise and talk. Heavy hearts we have in this crazy world. Then we came upon "your spot" which now became "ours" Thank you for the peaceful calm and time to reflect. We needed it and it changed our sad hearts for the day.
God Bless You !

Patti & Carol

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/7/06

What a wonderful, serene place !
Thank You. A thought for you today:
When you think you have gone as far as you possibly can, you have only gone half of the distance you are capable of.

Sue from Hamden

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/21/06

Hello,
I am biking w/my 4 children, ages 15,12,9 & 6. The six year old is on one of those bike hitch things. The others made it all way from Cheshire (at the begining) to Hamden (?) (the end, wherever that is) We live in Southbury - we love this trail because Southbury is ALL HILLS !
My youngest has a heart defect & spent 6 mo. in ICU trying to stay alive from complications due to his 4 open heart surgeries. Today he rode on this trail by himself, for about a half mile on a two wheeler. What a celebration !! I just never thought I'd see the day. Miracles all around us. Well, we'd better get going, it's a long way back. Thanks for the quiet respite and safe place to relax. Trish, Carrie 9, Nathan 12, Bob and Hannah

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/23/06

Thanks for this spot. I am once again reminded the kindness of strangers. I truly believe Anne Frank was correct that there are always good in people.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/13/06

Thanks to Randy Beach - the "Spirit of the Canal" is in the New Haven Register today. Check out his article - Randy, thanks so much for your words.
Cliff "the caretaker"

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/13/06

I just moved to Hamden from Los Angeles and this sanctuary is such a welcoming treat ! I am training for the LA Marathon - Acura Bike Tour next March and I look forward to stopping here during my training rides !

Dagmara (smiley face)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/13/06

I traveled north from Stamford towards a pond in North Hampton which I had visited over 10 years ago. The trip I need to take was really internal, but Ifelt I needed a change of space & peaceful surrounds to once again find the quiet inside. I saw a sign for a skate path and spontaneously went with the flow, turning off the highway and rolling into a natural grocery store. In the checkout line I declined to go ahead with my single item and met a woman who spoke about the beauty of letting go of physical things, to free yourself and live. She mentioned some beautiful places in Hamden and after a bunch of turns and listening carefully to my inner guidance, I found myself walking on the peaceful biking trail. After deciding to go a little further for the day, I found this oasis - I probably could have skipped this sojourn and say "my spirit brought me here". Anyway the last few months of my life have been challenging. I have been holding on to the past, memories of a fertile time in my life, one of great expression, youth, friendship and love and self acceptance. A great spiritual quakering & sense of connectedness with God. Moments like this in such tranquility help me let go and realize that I am always exactly where I need to be -that life is full of delicious and sometimes painful lessons and the most important thing is to LET GO and follow your heart & live freely, unteathered to the past.
I feel so blessed that I had the courage to change my plans and to find this beautiful path and through some tears, a quieter heart.
The caretakers of this place are truely angels for reminding me that heaven IS HERE on Earth.
With gratitude, David

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/14/06

I've been riding the trail nearly daily for the past 4 years vastly improving my health both physical and emotional. I have seen this beautiful spot but never stopped till today thanks to Randall Beach's article. God bless you Cliff you're a good man. (have you considered providing towels for the skinny dippers ?)

Ray (Cheshire)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/14/06

I rollerbladed through this canal last night and tripped over a stick and fell down and scraped my leg up bad, but I'm back here today to do the same thing !

Nina S.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/16/06

A moment of my life that is so tough. My family is in distress. Please take our lives in your prayers. Pray that my husband will be back to our home and be the husband and father he's used to be.

Audrey & James

( your family will be in our thoughts & prayers for the recovery of your beautiful family ) CAP

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/17/06

It's a beautiful day ! I rode my bike with my Autie and Mommy. We saw a bunny. Then we took a rest. It's very very pretty here ! THANK YOU ! be back soon

Sincerely, Elissabeth D. (North Haven )

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/18/06

Pictures in a paper do not offer the true value of the beauty found in this refuge from all of life's struggles and grind. There should be more places such as this not only on the trail of pavement, but in the paths of our lives to find the music and peace within yours.

Mike M.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/22/06

Thank you for this Rest and Prayer area. I brought my 9 year old grandaughter here for the first time. She is drawing a picture for you right now and going to write you a letter. I thank my God for people as kind and thoughtful as you are for making this Rest and Prayer area.

Thank You, Flo Conner

Dear Flo,

Your grandaughter's picture is laminated for protection from the weather and is proudly displayed next to the Spirit of the Canal mailbox for everyone to view. Thanks for visiting, your entry and for my picture. CAP (cliff)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/22/06

We never knew this existed only through the newspaper article. We have come upon an enchanted paradise ! How wonderful of you to allow us to do this - God Bless You !

Love, Audrey & Marilyn

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/31/06

This earth was not conceived in pain
Joyful falls the morning rain
But I've been singing blues so long
Help me find a happy song.

-RK-

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/31/06

This earth was not conceived in pain
Joyful falls the morning rain
But I've been singing blues so long
Help me find a happy song.

-RK-

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/3/06 2:45

Thank you for the wonderful place to sit and make happy scribbles.

Bryan & Zuzu (20 months)

(lots of scribbles on the page)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted on the written journal on 9/4/06

How wonderful to see a sign today - "Rest and Prayer" Such a perfect reminder of what we should all be doing more of. How generous and kind of your family to not mind the "intrusion" !
Surely a high point of the day for me !
We have learned a great deal during this short break !
Thank You ! Janet McHugh Tom Thomas & Sally

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/4/06

Labor Day - Sunny & Nice. 3rd bike ride of the year and what a day ! What a place to relax and reflect.
Great job. B (Hamden)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/8/06

There is a lot to be done still, showed a little change but not enough to make things happen. I need more patience with him. Show more loving than hate. God bless you stand by my side, help through this trouble, even if it feels worse now, but you want things to be better for all of us. You take care of him for now, when the time is right, snap him out of this confusion.

A & J

(answered by the Spirit of the Canal)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/9/06

My husband and I are traveling nurses. We are both RNs and we move around the country working in different areas for about 6 months before moving on. This summer we have spent here on the East Coast in New England. We absolutely love this area of the country. We have been to special places, such as Hawaii, Canada, West Coasts of California. Personally I have felt the most at "home" here in Connecticut. I love the big trees and the histories they hold. We are leaving here next week to go back to the West Coast. We have used this greenway almost daily for the past 6 months, running, biking and walking. Each time I pass this place I think how special it is for someone to make. This is the first time I have taken the time to stop. I'm thinking how fast the time has sped by. I'm excited to start a new adventure, but also reluctant to leave this beautiful area. Thank you for the spirit here, bless all that see it.

Vaughn & Nolarae Applebee

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/10/06

My husband & I were walking our two dogs & came upon your beautiful retreat & decided to stay awhile. I read your article & knew immediately that I wanted to share & add to the beauty.
Usually my husband rants about how many negative things there are about CT & today I am proud to say - STOP. It is through many people like yourselves that are doing beautiful things right here in CT.
My words to people are: Never stop believing. There are angels around us that lead us into the light.
Thank you for creating a space that invites & imbraces warm hearts & spiritual minds... Sharone

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/11/06

How we spend our days is truly how we spend our lives.

Ann Dillard

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/11/06

5 years later

I had to write in this journal today...it is hard to believe that it's been 5 years since those awful terrorist attacks. My heart aches for those who lost their loved ones and the fear and sadness our country has faced. The sky is just as blue as it was in 2001 and I will spend the day remembering and never forgeting where I was, composing myself so my children weren't afraid and how brave many were that day. USA is more patriotic now and I hope in my lifetime I never see anything worse than 9/11. I am 5 years older, but I am heathy and strong. I run and rollerblade on this canal and hope to allow myself to clear my head and hopefully do good in my life and make a difference. I am thankful to have such a caring family and friends and each 9/11 from this day foward I hope to reflect on the tragedy but also regard it in a day to feel blessed and hope for more love in the world and less hatred.
M.A.D.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/17/06

Dear Trail, I have been here many times but this is my favorite time of all because my friend Megan came with us. Love Dina 7 years P.S. and I hope many other people have fun too.

Megan was here - peace out - Love Megan 7 years old P.S. I love the trail
Danny was here too ! 4 years old
Thanks for the cool, restful spot ! Mom

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/25/06

Love the crisp fall air - going for a great jog. I feel autumn creeping closer. Feel so motivated today. Hope this spot stays here forever, be back again.
M.A.D.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 9/30/06

The article from the paper
FROM CLIFF TO ZIGGY
was great. I'm very good friends with the Zale family and we all enjoyed the thoughtful write-up. I had to stop here and say thank you for your interest and love of people and our beautiful Farmington Canal Line. A few years ago a dear friend of mine walked the 80 mile line from New Haven to North Hampton. I hope to live long enough to bike the whole path when all the segments are joined and the pathway is done.

Love, the Sugarmaster from Brooksvale Park.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/2/06

Today is Yon Kippur - the holiest day in the Jewish calendar. My friend and I decided that community with God than (illegible) was the way we wanted to observe this Holy Day. What a surprise to find your sanctuary. Happy & Healthy New Year to the World - May peace replace conflict.
Shelby & Alice

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 11/19/06

The CT Section of the Green Mt Club is walking the linear trail from Hamden-Cheshire. Thank you for such a lovely place.
Carol H. Langley

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 11/23/06

Happy Thanksgiving !
Molly the lab & Liz the border collie

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 12/7/06

In memory of Pearl Harbor Day 12/7/41. I was 16 years old - our nation was at war with Japan. God bless all the fine men that fought for our beloved America.
May the present war in Iraq come to an end soon and may the people there be blessed with peace. May good come from all our country's efforts to help them.
Best Wishes,
Mary
God Bless America

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 12/24/06

Christmas eve - Peace on Earth, good will to everyone.

Bless our Service People throughout the world - Supporting our free way of life and giving other people a sense of Liberty that our nation enjoys. Though today's weather is mild - back in 1776 when Washington (then a General) crossed the Delaware to attack the Hessians in Trenton, NJ, the weather was so cold that ice flows choked the Delaware River. General Washington then led our Continental Army approximately 7 miles in the cold night for America's first victory in the Revolutionary War.
Let's all remember that we all owe our free lifestyle here in America to the sacrifices of our Military. Those who denounce our military efforts are the first to run and are uneducated in the chronicles of American history and the history of nations no longer in existence or no longer free.

God bless our troops and all of the Veterans of the past.

Cliff

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 12/24/06

It's Christmas Eve. 1 year ago I brought my Father and Sister together after misguided words from ten years ago. I discovered I was an Aunt 3 times over, my Dad discovered he was a proud Grandfather. Today we are here, Christmas Eve walking my (our) beautiful nieces through the sunshine. This is our 1st Christmas together as a REAL family !!
Thank you for this space.
May all our dreams come true in the New Year !!
Jennifer (Aunt) & Ken (Grampy)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 1/6/06

What a wonderful day !
What a wonderful day !
What an interesting discovery !
Let our paths cross again.

Dennis J. Milford, CT

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 3/207

Happy Birthday Sue #58 & counting.
God Bless You ! Cliff

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 4/14/07

I've riden by here at least 100 times. I never knew we were allowed to stop and meditate. Thank you for the respite.
Katlyn

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 4/23/07

Beautiful day, peaceful place, calm state of mind. I am surrounded
by angels, my sister and her 9 month old twins. Life is good !
- the proud Aunt Doria

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 5/11/07

Goodness spreads like the ripples from a pebble tossed in a pond. We all have difficult times in our lives, but it is goodness that we want to remember. Thanks for this place of goodness. May it's ripples be felt from here to eternity.

Two grateful travelers

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 5/10/07

Thank you for this beautiful spot. Today is a very special day, we took our two daughters on their first bicycle ride, it was nice watching their little bicycles with the training wheels. We came upon this place of rest and prayer and decided to take a brake and enjoy the solitude, the girls enjoyed it and so did we.
Thanks again. Rodd, Olga, Jocelyn & Emily

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 5/13/07

Happy Mother's Day !!

This is our 2nd time stopping at this beautiful restful place of peace and prayer. It's a beautiful day...my husband and I have biked 11 miles so far...the only thing missing today is our beautiful 27 year old daughter who lives in Colorado. Oh well, we've talked, laughed and cried already so it's all good.
Enjoy everyone and may the good Lord's face shine on you today and everyday !!
Gen & Bob

P.S. Almost forgot to say "thank you" for sharing this beautiful place with us.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 5/5/07

Thank you for this !
You are a blessing !

Now for some words for everyone:

Watch your thoughts
they become words.
Watch your words
they become actions.
Watch your actions
they become habits
Watch your habits
they become your character
Watch your character
for it will become your destiny !

Be blessed be strong !

Love in Christ;
Edwin Maarcano

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 5/28/07

My husband and I came for a bike ride. We were here last year & had to return. The presence of the Lord is in this place. Thank you for being obedient to Christ to open this up to others fo feel his presence. May you & your family be blessed.

Mark & Donna Alley

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 6/6/07

This is beautiful. What a creative & loving idea. I am a musician & would love to bring my guitar down here sometime. What a lovely little place ! Somewhere to rest & listen to nature's song.
Love, Anna

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 6/6/07

Operation Overlord - D Day 1944

The begining of the European Liberation. We shall never forget - thanks, the world thanks you - God Bless you our gallant soldiers. We are free because of your sacrifice and God bless our soldiers of today, sacrificing their lives for our freedom.
Remember...Freedom is not free.

CAP (cliff)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 6/11/07

Thanks Cliff for doing this - it's like a little piece of heaven on earth. I need your prayers for me and my family. Some of us are in poor health and my son is only 30 and suffers daily. I love coming here - it's beautiful.
Love, Lori..... Lea & Madison thank you

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 6/13/07

Too many times in life we lose sight of what's important - family, friends, loved ones and other things that we miss because we're too caught up in the day to day - sometimes it seems like too much of a hassle to just stop and appreciate life and what God's given us. This spot makes you realize that there are times for nothing but reflection - and that it's okay to just take a moment out of your day to realize everyday we have. Thanks for this place and may anyone who is here always keep in mind to appreciate today because today is the future of yesterday and the past of tomorrow.

Also if everyone could please keep David Guzowski in your prayers it would be greatly appreciated !

Stephanie

David is in our prayers today and tomorrow, CAP (cliff)

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 6/28/07

Oxygen envigorating the blood stream produced by the trees, our enduring companions. Comforting benches, community spirit...may we save this spectacular earth! The birds chorus "yes" !
B????

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/6/07

I could never recall the numerous times I've found myself lost in the beauty here. This place is always here to lend me a shoulder and tickle me a smile. But between each smile there is a tear in my eye. A lifes story remains untold and lies are still held to be true. But even though I dwell on my sorrow, tomorrow is another day and my story will be told.

unsigned

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/12/07

What a beautiful piece of God's creation ! We praise him for this little surprise we discovered on our journey and for those who have cared for it. We spent a few moments here praying that the Holy Spirit would be present here to touch the lives of those who visit that God's children would hear his voice here; that more people would come to know Jesus to bring revival to New England. If my name would humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and heal their land. 2 chr 7:14

As I recover from cancer, the Lord has spoke to me more & more that healing of our diseases & our struggles will happen more & more as people turn from this world and cry out to God....
In Christ, J. Putnam Cheshire, CT

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/12/07

Thank you, Thank you, Thank you !
I came here especially to give my burdens to God. I know he will take them if I let him. Thank you for this little bit of heaven on Earth !
Donna V.J.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/20/07

It took us almost 4 hours to drive down here from Boston. I'm so glad this place is here. To have a moments peace in nature is priceless. Thank G-d.
Deb

Thank you for sharing your beautiful corner of the universe.
Kathleen

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/21/07

This has to be one of the top 10 days of the year.
Thank the Lord, CAP

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 7/21/07

I have walked by hundreds of times and never realized the santuary that lies here. How beautiful and much needed after going through a difficult time. I hope to carry this peacefulness with me in the coming days.
Thank you, thank you, thank you,
Kate

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/15/07

I feel my prayers will be answered here. I feel the positive energy here. I am on the right path in life and next time I return I am certain my prayers will be answered.
ES & AN always

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/23/07

Dearest Patrice,

If you are reading this, then our relationship has obviously grown stronger. You are sitting next to me on the bench catching your breath from our run. I am honored to be sitting here next to you smiling back at you as you turn to look at me. You are an amazing woman and I am a better man for having known you. Now get up and let's run some more !

Yours Truly, Michael

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/24/07

Yes I'm here again. I have an autoimmune illness called PBC which attacks my bile ducts leading from the liver to the gallbladder. It can cause cirrohis of the liver. Primary Bilary Cirrohis (PBC) Also have Fibromyalgia and possibly Lupus. On my good days I cut thru the woods and walk down here. I can't tell you how much I enjoy doing this ! It's a piece of serenity for me. I so have learned to enjoy the things in life that most take for granted. This place is a part of heaven to me. Thank you once again for your thoughtfulness.
with Love Lori C.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/25/07

Foggy and damp - beautiful weather to bike ride and feel the cool breeze wipe the heat from your body. What a vantage spot to watch the people go by and rest from your labors - Thank you

Sending love and peace to all.
KJB

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 8/28/07

Beautiful spot ! My sons 5 yrs and 1 yr enjoy this trail. My 5 yr old is just learning to ride a 2 wheeler. It's amazing because he was diagnosed with a brain tumor last year and we never knew if this day would come. He wanted to visit your area. He's filled with smiles.
Thanks, Joe

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/7/07

After passing by many times, we finally stopped when we saw the opportunity to participate in a poll ! We will stop by again because this is a beautiful, peaceful place. Thank you for sharing.
Nicole & Clay

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/8/07

We will make our goal of walking 12 miles today, thanks to this lovely resting place. We'll be back to practice for our fundraising walk on 10/6/07. Our goal is 26.2 miles to raise money for the Terry Brodeur Foundation for Breast Cancer Research. Thanks for sharing !
Tina

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/11/07

We remember - We pray
CAP

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/30/07

A Tribute to my Mother.

This is for you Momz.
You were the light of my life. You always said that I was - but I am who I am because of you. I will love you forever - you will always be in my heart.
September 9th will never be just another day again for me. Your passing has made this the saddest day I have ever endured. You are everywhere now - in the breeze, in the warm sun, in this quiet place.

I love you Mom.

Judy

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/15/07

When I sit down
to have a rest
I like your little place the best.
It's nice to have
a welcome seat
Your little garden
can't be beat

Rudy Vener

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/21/07

I found this spot as a blessing and message from God to stop and pray. I offer special prayers today for Tom. He took his life on 9/19 - he had a wonderful wife and 3 kids.
Please remember him and his family in your prayers - they are hurting.

What a wonderful place for relaxation and meditation - thank you - it's just what I needed.

Trisha

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/22/07

"Gian's (Gene's) Memorial Mass"

Today was the Celebration of Life, the life of Gian Carlo Massel, for all of his family, friends, neighbors and for those who were acquainted with this remarkable young man. As we all were touched and blessed to have known and loved him - today gave us a special day to focus and grieve and celebrate our feelings - thoughts & prayers.
Gian, you will live forever in our minds and especially in our hearts. We Love you and miss you dearly.

Cliff Pollack

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 9/23/07

Cliff,

So sorry for your loss of "Gian" May he rest in the arms of the Lord forever and forever. Once again thank you for this lovely peaceful place. I have been here numerous times and each time I consider it a blessing to be able to come here.
"Give the gift of life, be an organ donor."
So many are in need of livers and other body parts. support "PBC" (primary biliary cirrhosis) and other autoimmune illnesses with thanks from the PBC'ers online site. Some of us will never need a new liver but other's may - so give the gift of life - become an organ donor PBC can cause debilitation's symptoms in some - in others hardly anything. For some autoimmune illnesses follow to make it complicated. It seems like one auto immune illness requires company. In my case fibromyalgia, raynaud's, arthritis and possible lupus plus a host of other stuff. Some are still working in stage 4 - others in stage 2 are disabled. A very mysterious illness indeed. Stage 4 is end stage - at any time the liver can start to fail. It happens too in the other stages as well. This is my way of educating people- spreading the word about invisible illnesses. We look guide healthy to others - but are literally very sick inside our bodies. (and sometimes our minds too!) Ha ha - just a joke!

With Love
Lori C.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/30/07

Hi,

I'm Gefen from Israel, Just wanted to say that this place is beautiful. Thank you for sharing and caring. God Bless

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 10/20/07

This is Loverly! It's our 1st "Walk for Chocolate"! Come and celebrate the goodness of choclate! Eat and walk - meet very SATURDAY 10am at the "Pier 1" parking lot bring choclate, nibble and walk one hour to HERE - Its a beautiful thing!

Thanks Sue
Walkforchoc@yahoo.com

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 10/20/07

Its about 65 degrees and sunny. The walk is paved with leaves and puddles. I could not have asked for a better day. I love reading this book everytime I come.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal 10/22/07

I am so grateful for this spot! It's the one time during the day when I can sit and appreciate the world!
Thanks!

-a weary student

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 10/22/07

The Zitzmann Family
Houston, Texas 77373
Thanks for building this wonderful yard.

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the written journal on 11/25/07

Was here last on 9/28/07, it was my 1st time to. Need to say I was not the last runner in the NYC marathon and you were part of the great moment with me! Sense finish in thought been here serveral time and trying to say it great physically to be! Continue the spirit of life a wise child says it does continue me. Then the child prayers in its own way - and it stalls me out with pure glee!
ccole074@aol.com
Peace AL-

Cliff the Caretaker said...

Posted in the journal on 11/29/07

Oh, what a day ! I just wanted to share with the world - yes - I want to shout it out - of the joy of being in Love. Today, I let a very special person that I met three and a half years ago know how I truly feel about her - that I Love her so. Yes, I adore her. My attraction started off instantly with her classic look and charming personality. I guess you can say she had this Jackie O look - adding these attractive mannerisms of hers - my mind would not let go. I admired this woman from the start and my heart grew more fascinated as the months went by. I deeply respect her for what she stands for and how she leads her life - truly a remarkable Lady. I am blessed to have met her and count my blessings that our paths have crossed. I cannot predict the future, but I know I will Love this Lady forever. May God bless her daily and let her wear her beautiful smile for the world to view - she radiates the "beauty of life". This special Lady is again a truly special person and I am so fortunate to have met her and announce my Love for her.

Frank G.

otherone said...

Church on the Rock-New Haven appreciates the hospitality. What a welcoming spot for our morning devotional and a great place to take off for some church-wide walking, running and rollerblading. The Spirit was flowing and our blood was circulating. Thank you, thank you, thank you!!