Julia Irene Peterson Hardy

Keokuk, Iowa

Julie has loved poetry since nursery rhyme days to the sound of her mother's voice. At age 13, she wrote Fitz-James, her first poem, for 9th grade English. She became an educator, tutor and reading specialist, filling retirement with church, family, travel and an avid love for poetry. "THE WONDER OF IT ALL", containing many award-winning and faith-sharing poems is hot off Watermark Press. Her work is published in newsletters, newspapers, magazines and in over 50 anthologies -- read internationally. She enjoys reading poetry aloud on radio and TV. Two further manuscripts are underway -- the Lord willing: MORE PUBLISHING! Philosophy statement: Always seek God's help and do your best at everything!

Foodlecry

Each has a choice:
To eat to live
Or gorge and die.

Salute good looks
And life and health
Or sing the Glutton's
FOODLECRY!

The Upward Way

When life's clouds hang heavy
and sin is all around
Lie in the Gospel's green pastures
where the Shepherd is found
Follow Him faithfully
like a truly good sheep
That quiet waters of lasting life
will be yours to keep.

The Mark A Good Teacher Makes

That little cherub sitting there
With eager eyes and expectant air
Who knows what he may become...
Perhaps a doctor, lawyer, preacher
Policeman, executive, senator or 'rep'
He could blossom into another good teacher.
He might even become our President
Or be well-equipped for other walks in life.

That little one may prove to be
History's essential vital link
Because a good teacher made him-- think!

God Blesses Those Who Seek Him

God blesses those who seek Him..
Through baptism, He makes us His children
Into our hearts, He sends the Holy Spirit
That we might feel peace and joy.

Through the trials of life
He sustains us
And hears our every prayer
No matter how He answers
He will not leave us wanting there.

He sent the Holy Jesus
To rescue us from sin
Repentance and forgiveness
Hold heaven's light aloft within.

We are blessed to be a blessing
By spreading the word of His love
Yes, God blesses those who seek Him
By rewarding His own with heaven above.