Guest Artist: Rebecca


I wanted to introduce you to Rebecca. She is one of the first people I met when I joined the Bloggerette Sorority...and I am so happy that she agreed to be a guest artist today!

Rebecca creates so much beauty--and that is what amazes me about her! It is no wonder that her home has been featured in so many famous magazines--she is gifted! But, in addition to that, she is genuinely warm, a trait that I so highly value as I’m sure you do too.

It was difficult to decide what I wanted to post and then we settled on one of her pillows. And you may wonder, “Why a pillow?” Well, the reason is that it reminded me of when I was little and would say my prayers beginning with, “Now I lay me down to sleep...” And I would rest my head on the pillow when I finished thanking God for all of my blessings. It was such a comfort.

And then, I thought of “our comfort zones” and how easy it is to stay glued to them instead of reaching out to others to comfort them. Imagine if each day we reached out to comfort someone, even if it meant saying, “I understand what you’re going through.” We could visit someone who is sick. We could help someone to their car whose load is too heavy.

Being a comfort to others is a privilege. It is one of the best ways I know to affirm that the Lord is alive and well and dwelling in us.

When I saw this pillow, I thought of all the collective comfort we could bring to others! All of us just doing one thing could add up to so much! And when we rest our heads on the pillow at night, we would know that we made this world just a little brighter.

To visit Rebecca's blog, just click on her name up above!

Monday Message--"If the Shoe Fits"

Guest Artist: Rosemary

http://ozmaofodds.blogspot.com/

Hi Everyone--

Let me introduce you to an amazing Paperie artist...She has such a divine blog that if you miss it, I’ll feel sad as it is like a pink and white haven! And look at this paper shoe...how dreamy is this?

I was so fortunate that Rosemary made a comment on my blog the other day, I went to see her blog and couldn’t leave!

Then, I came upon this magical slipper shoe and I thought “If the shoe fits, wear it!”

I often receive emails from people telling me that they are undecided about something. It’s as if indecision has its grip on them...Of course, my first instinct is always to say, “Go with your heart.” Then, I am reminded of the verse which says “Lean not unto your own understanding...” (I carry that with me in my Bible pouch.)

But, back to the “shoe fitting”....Often when we are faced with indecision it is because we are about to embark on a new phase of life’s journey. That is when it is time for prayer, maybe listing the pros and cons on paper, and ultimately listening to that “still small voice inside of us.”

I would like to tell you a personal story....Years ago, I owned my own record label...I was very active in the children’s music industry. One day, a friend of mine called and was talking about how she had gone back to college. She assumed that I had my degree, but I didn’t. So, she said, “Why don’t you go back to school?” I was 44 at the time....I said, “Oh my gosh, I can’t do that! I’ll be 47 by the time I finish.”

She said, “Well, look at it this way--would you rather be 47 with a degree or without one?” Brilliant!

So, I went and signed up, got my degree and also completed my Master’s while I was at it. The whole academic decision was decided on a whim. AND it was so fun! I loved the classes, the teachers, the students! Pure joy--except statistics..lol. (Although the teacher was amazing!)

Anyway, if you are ever faced with indecision, just think about this precious shoe, and if you think “The shoe fits” and a change will benefit you--go for it! Let me say, even if things don’t turn out as planned, we LEARN from every experience. That is part of life.

Thank you Rosemary for sharing this beautiful creation...what a treasure!

Welcome to My New Link Party!

What's my favorite place? It's the beach...I spent most of my life on it in California and I feel at home whenever I am looking at the water....love it!!! And here is a video that I am sure you will love--it is sublime!
Oops--I put an extra "s" in desert!

"Bloom Where You're Planted" and The Blog Guide Book

Guest Artist: Donna

Her blog: http://myshabbychateau.blogspot.com

Hi Everyone--

Today I am featuring the work of Donna and I would really encourage you to visit her blog as she has some amazingly inspiring projects on there! I saw this picture of her fleur de lis sconces and it made me think of something really important that I wanted to talk to you about.

I am currently in New Orleans and the fleur de lis is its symbol. I am new to the area and moved here after Hurricane Katrina. The people are very welcoming and make me feel right at home. Do I hear jazz music all the time? No. I did when I lived in the French Quarter...I live 8 miles from there now in a small, seaside village where many people have been shrimpers and crabbers all their lives...It is an area rich in history and the Battle of New Orleans took place here.

I think about the statement “Bloom Where You’re Planted” and feel like we can all bloom wherever we are and enjoy the simple pleasures of a particular area. What’s my favorite thing here? The people. They’re so friendly. And I am near water so there’s boats and a beautiful marina...love it!

What do you love about where you are from? Share it with us--we’d love to hear it!

And thank you, Donna for being a guest artist today--your creations and repurposing projects are amazing!



Also, I have just joined the Blog Guide Book to announce this prayer blog and link parties on it....I believe that more people will be aware that there is a place where someone cares about them!

Oops! And one more thing--tonight I will post the link for the blog party which asks, "What is your favorite place?"

Wishing You a Great Day!

Guest Artist: Chris

http://myartyattempts.blogspot.com/

Hi Everyone:

When I saw this wonderful, carefree piece on Chris’ blog, I knew it would be something you would all enjoy seeing. She does some amazing art, including this piece....As you look at her work, it all tells a story. How delightful!

I love how this piece says, “Have a great day” because that is what I am wishing all of you. And the rainbow sky? I wish you rainbows too and the carefree feeling of being a child again....Wouldn’t it be great to have just ONE day like that? Why not make it today?

What a plan, yes?

I think it would be wonderful to wake up and make a decision to let things “roll off our backs,” not stress and pick at least just ONE thing to totally enjoy at some point in our day, whether it’s a cup of tea, a conversation with a friend, or a good book...

I’m ready to do it...I’m ready to set aside any worry or negativity and just let things “flow.” When something comes my way that I have to deal with, I’m handing it over to the Lord who watches over all of us....I’m going to use faith instead of might and joy instead of stress....

I invite you to join me.

And thank you Chris for giving us all this inspiration--you are a blessing!

If you would like to leave a message on Chris' blog, just click the link at the top of this post.

Hugs,
Cindy

A Wonderful Surprise!

Hi Everyone--

Today in my email I received this amazing altered art piece from Faye--I was so surprised. It is so beautiful and I was so deeply touched by her kindness AND talent!

Faye doesn't know it but she has always been an inspiration to me ever since I came on the internet showing my art in the past year. We would often enter different challenges and I loved her work and couldn't wait to talk to her. Why? Because she is so real.

Now for any of you who do not do artwork, let me just say that sharing art on a blog can be very intimidating. Sometimes, I'd create a piece of art I was so excited about, share it and then think, "What did I do that for?" lol And there were some artists who were totally amazing and would give such kind feedback...you've met some of them on here on this blog before because their art is great, but in addition, they are wonderful human beings. I always knew when I had met a kindred spirit.

So, I should tell you that I began this blog as a way to ask people if they needed a prayer...that was it! I had no idea that I would meet such wonderful people (like those of you reading this) and also be able to feature the work of artists that I admire not only for their work, but also for who they are as human beings.

What is my point today? It is that it's great if we just do what we do because we love it and we never know what will come about as a result. And we never know what wonderful surprises will come along on our way down that path of happiness.

If you would like to visit Faye's blog, just click this link:
http://hastingshall2.wordpress.com/

Wishing you all a beautiful day!
Hugs,
Cindy

Message Monday and Drawing Winner

Hi Everyone:

I received this picture in my email on Friday and was so excited...June from Junibears made it just for me! What an amazing surprise from my talented friend! It made me realize that as we come on here, we make friendships through the internet with people we might never have the wonderful luck to meet otherwise.

I am actually not one who loves being on the computer. But, when I began blogging, I realized that it was a way to connect with people who in many ways may know us better than our own families. If we’re not on for a day or a week, they worry about us. I’m not sure if most people’s neighbors have that much concern for each other.

But, there’s more to my internet story than that....Six years ago, I was teaching an ESL class in Los Angeles. A young student of mine (about 19 years old) gave me a beautiful jacket when the semester ended in January...I was stunned. She also gave me a picture from a calendar page that was of Our Lady of Guadalupe. She said, “Teacher, I brought this to you so that God would bless you to meet a wonderful man.”

A few nights went by. The coat was hung in the closet in my apartment. The picture was on my desk. I worked teaching night school and I came in one night, was totally alone, and went on the internet to look up something. Then, I found a chat room. I was familiar with it as I had Web TV...it was like a computer for families and people in the chat rooms were really nice.

So, I went into a chat room and saw a conversation on the screen between 2 men who were talking about needing lights on their trucks. I had an F-150 truck, but had never heard of those lights....So, I said to the one man, “Excuse me. What kind of lights are you talking about? I drive a truck and I’m worried that I don’t have the right lights and I don’t want to get a ticket.”

He said, “Oh, those are lights for a fire truck. You’re fine. You don’t need them.” I was very relieved!

We talked for awhile and laughed and joked. Then, he called me. We talked for 3 hours. A few nights later, I met him in person at a restaurant. He drove 150 miles to come see me. All I could think when I went home was, “I’ve got to see him again tomorrow.” What a strange thing to think!

There is a punchline here--We are married and will celebrate our 5th anniversary in December. My Monday Message is that you never know who you will meet on here or why....I guess sometimes fate just takes over.

Also, I would like to announce the winner of the burlap tag--it is Donna from My Shabby Chateau--congratulations, Donna!

Hugs to you all and have a wonderful week.

This is linked to A Glimpse of Beautiful!!!

Love,
Cindy

New Link Party, Surprise, and Give-Away

Tag from Dore!

Hi Everyone,

Today there was a surprise in my mailbox--this beautiful tag from Dore! And of all things, it said, “Nesting Instincts,” which is probably the strongest instinct I’ve had all my life. It is so beautiful--I will cherish this always. “Thank you so much, Dore!”


My New Give-Away Tag

Last night, I had just completed a tag that I wanted to have for this drawing for the weekend...It was created with burlap, twine, Prima flower, fibers, and a Tim Holtz tile and key. While these 2 tags look different, notice the key and musical notes on each one...how surprising! (If you would like to have your name entered into this drawing, just let me know in a comment under this post.)



For this link party, I had asked people to tell us what they collect. While I collect many things, I wanted to show you this 6-foot cherry wood credenza that is filled with personalized music boxes given to me by my daughter, Jenny. She is 28 and has been buying them for me for every Christmas and birthday since she was 14. Most are from Disney and the San Francisco Music Box Company and each one has a certificate. There are also carousel horses and 3 separate carousels that go around as they play music. At night, the cabinet lights up and looks so magical. I refer to this cabinet as “My cabinet filled with love.” (It never started as a collection--it just became one!) Oh, and one more thing--the cabinet was a housewarming gift from my mom!

What do you love? Show us what is dear to your heart. It will help us know you better and share your joy of collecting. Just write about it on your blog or put a picture of it on your blog, scroll down to the next post which is the Link Party and
link it up!

Hugs,
Cindy

New Link Party!

God's Love

Guest artist: Barbara

As you know, this is an inspirational blog...strictly for spiritual growth and nourishment...a place of sharing. So, it is wonderful that so many of you artists decided to “hop on board” to help inspire people with your art.

This piece by Barbara Jean is pure joy. One of the wonderful things about those of you who decided to share your life’s work on here is that others can get a better sense of who you are by what you create because these pieces convey your essence. And this piece is no exception.

Think of its beautiful message--what a wonderful thought and one we can all embrace! Indeed, the love of the Lord lasts forever. In Psalms 36:7, the psalmist writes: How priceless is your unfailing love! Both high and low among men find refuge in the shadow of your wings.

This verse tells us that no matter what our station in life, God is our refuge. His love reaches out to all of us. We can find solace in His care. His love is available to everyone everywhere at any time. What a beautiful comfort that is.

If you would like to highlight this verse in your Bible, you can always have it with you. Before you know it, you will have a collection of verses that you can turn to whenever you need to know just how much your Heavenly Father loves you.

My prayers are with all of you and I am delighted that you live in the shadow of your wonderful Father’s wings.

One more thing...Barbara's father has undergone surgery this week...He loves the Lord so and I am asking for you prayer warriors out there to please join me in prayer for him...Thank you, dear ones!

If you would like to visit Barbara's blog, you can click on her name up above.

Hugs,
Cindy

If God Was Coming to Dinner

Guest Artist: Dore


I saw this beautiful table setting by Dore--Isn’t it pure delight? It made me wonder what we would feel like if we thought that God was coming to dinner at our house...What would we wear? What would we ask Him? Would we scrub every nook and cranny?

Then, I started to think that in reality, He is at the table of our lives every day. Do we make Him feel welcome? Do we converse with Him and make Him feel as if He is really important to us?

I reflect on this table setting and I think that if my heart was as welcoming as this, the Lord would always feel like He has a place in my heart to reside. You know what the best part is? I don’t have to wait for a special occasion to invite Him in. Nor do I have to wait for everything to go “downhill” before realizing that I need His help in all the decisions of my life. I can do it now. It only takes a minute to say, “God I welcome you and accept your guidance in my life.”

I feel like Dore’s beautiful setting is the inspiration I need to always keep this in mind. It is such a poignant picture. It is such a true reflection of how our hearts should be--welcoming and intent on making the Lord feel at home there.

I remember years ago when my son was little, I took him to Disneyland. We were gone all day and when I walked through the door that evening, I found out that there would be guests coming to stay for a few days (friends of friends) and that I needed to cook a big, formal dinner for the next night. To say the least, I sprang into action!

When the guests arrived the next night, they were made to feel very welcome. The dinner table was set with finest china and silver. The most beautiful linens were chosen for the occasion. Everything was in its place. And then as we ate, we started to talk and they were the kindest, most wonderful people. I was delighted. What they did for me spiritually was much more than what I offered them in the way of accommodations and a well-prepared meal. They gave me what I needed spiritually.

If we live our lives in such a manner that we make God feel welcome, He can bring us joy that is beyond measure. So, set your spiritual table and make Him feel at home in your heart. Each day is an opportunity to get closer to the One who created us and sustains us from moment to moment.

Dore, thank you for this inspiration--it brings me such JOY to share it with others and show them your amazing creativity!

If you want to see a gorgeous designer blog, take a look at "Dore's World." It is spectacular. Just click the name "Dore" that is written up above right after the words "Guest Artist."

And, please, one more thing--if you have a chance, please visit Renee's blog at some point today or tonight...She has a video on it that you won't believe...it is beautiful! Get out the kleenex because I promise, you will need it...Renee's blog button is on the sidebar...just click it.

Prayerful Tuesday

Hi Everyone--
Today I would like to ask you to think of one person whom you know needs a prayer and say one for him or her...simple, yet powerful! Prayer is very important and often we are so busy inspiring others through our writing online that we find little time to do something that is so vital for our well-being...

So, why do I ask you to pray for someone else? Because sometimes it is easier to pray with faith for others than it is to pray for ourselves...

If possible, please leave me a note here and let me know if you're "in!"

Hugs,
Cindy

Monday Message

Hi Everyone--
I imagine that last week you must have wondered why I took you on my revamp journey about the art center....Well, as you can see above, it is all done...3 big cabinets did the trick--hooray! (By the way, this big cabinet is in an alcove that is not visible to people walking into the house. It's in an area in my family room that is not accessible to visitors.)

But, there is a bigger reason and "method to my madness." You see, when you looked at the first picture of the mess last week, you could certainly tell that this was a daunting task to clean up...Not something with a simple solution or "quick fix." Sometimes life's problems are like that, but when something gets cleared up, we feel so much better! Problems don't feel great when we are going through them, that's for sure.

However, do you know what made me feel like I could get it all done? Because I had each one of you cheering me on and giving me confidence....I kept thinking of "The Little Engine That Could." So, you see, it is also important to turn to those we need in life when things aren't going the way we planned...someone to say a prayer for us or someone who believes in us and our capabilities...and it is important to pray. God makes all things possible. So, we need to learn to turn to Him even for the tiniest things.

If you are ever encountering a problem, just remember my art mess! And remember that there IS a light at the end of the tunnel!

Please scroll down to be part of my new drawing!
Hugs,
Cindy

My Latest Drawing--Fairy Garden Delights

Hi Everyone,

I think that we see God's blessings so miraculously in a garden and I hope this piece helps you remember the treasures of nature that He brings to us each day.

A blank CD became the makings of a magical fairy garden with a bird, fairies, butterflies, and bird’s nest. If you would like to be entered into my drawing to win this, just leave your name under this post. The drawing will be within a week--I just haven’t determined when it will be yet! (Created with all commercial embellishments and papers.) I should tell you that the colors are deeper in person and the entire piece appears very vintage.

This drawing is being run on this, as well as my Whimsical Musings blog, so you only need to sign up in one place!

Linking this up to Spiritual Sunday--Their button is on the sidebar of my blog...please scroll down to link up to this wonderful link event.

Also, my link party is still in effect through Sunday and you're welcome to join in...Just tell us your favorite movie on your blog and link it up here...It is a terrific way to get to know people better! Just scroll down to link up.

I am having problems with my computer, so if I don't answer you, it means I can't get on here...it's a new mac, but it's overheating...

Also, please come back for my Monday Message!

This drawing is now closed--Peggy Gatto is the winner!

Hugs,
Cindy

A BIG thank you!!!

Hi Everyone,

My husband just went out to the mailbox and walked in with a BIG surprise for me! One Heart sent me a book called "Streams in the Desert." What she doesn't know is that I had only heard of the book the day before I received the news that she was sending it to me. I had just been thinking, "Wow, I need to get that book." The next thing I knew, she sent it to me! What a wonderful surprise--and it means even more because it came from her. I feel truly blessed. One Heart, I cannot thank you enough.

There is still time to visit the Link Party that is on-going....Just list your favorite movie on your blog and link it up here!
Love,
Cindy

My Entry For the Link Party

Hi Everyone--
Today is the day of the Link Party, of course...And I need to tell you my list of favorite movies...

I love Pollyanna, Gidget, and The Little Princess (with Shirley Temple.) And my favorite “grown-up” movie is “Sweet Dreams” about Patsy Cline...I love all movies that are true stories about people in the music business...If you haven’t seen Cadillac Records, it is really worth seeing and it’s a true story too.

When Patti told me she was listing 20 movies, I figured I could add some more, so here goes...Splendor in the Grass, My Cousin Vinny, Something’s Gotta Give, The Devil Wears Prada, As Good As it Gets...and Good Will Hunting...

But, what movie was really amazing and very real? Fireproof with Kirk Cameron...If you haven’t seen it, try to rent it...It’s worth it!

What's Your Favorite Movie?

Going from "messed to blessed" Part 3

Click on the photo to enlarge.

Hi Everyone...
First, I would like to thank you for going on this sojourn with me! When I started this blog, I wanted it to be real. What I mean by that is that it is very easy for someone to quote scriptures and act like they have life totally together--but that's not me...I'm an explorer. I try something. Then, try something else...For me, life is a journey. It is never stagnant. And I am sure that yours is the same way...If you look back over the years, you will probably recognize changes and situations that you never expected...That is the JOY of life!

Tomorrow will be the day of final pics, but I took these today to share with you...I tried my best to give you a "Taste of New Orleans" from this blog. The Joan of Arc statue has been in my family for years, so when I moved to the south, I asked my mom if I could have it...She said "yes" and I was excited because Joan of Arc is the patron saint of New Orleans.

Tomorrow is also the day of our Link Party--All I need you to do is post your favorite movie on your blog and link it up here. So, that's pretty simple, but it helps us know each other better. Now, as for me, I probably will list 4! Yes, 4. So, stayed tuned to hear what they are AND to hear why I began this little mess-to-bless mini-series...When you read it, I'm sure it will all make sense why I posted it on here to begin with.
Hugs,
Cindy


Click on the photo to enlarge.

Going from "Messed" to "Blessed" Part II

Hi Everyone--

Well, it is not quite time for rejoicing yet, but I am close...this is the same shelf from the other day...recognize it?






Here is the kitchen completely done and back in order...hooray!




These are two large cabinets we just purchased for the family room. There are canvas baskets that fit into the cubbies as you can see in the pic.





Here is the inside of one so you can see I’ve finally gotten it all organized.





Last but not least is a handy carrier that we bought at Home Depot...
It’s for tools, but I bought it for scissors, tape, or anything I need handy.





We still have the art-center-in-progress being assembled....It should be completed in a few days and ready for viewing.

Going from "Messed" to "Blessed"

If you remember, on Monday I talked about clearing the clutter in our lives...
I am a person who believes in “a place for everything and everything in its
place.” My upstairs looks like a “bed and breakfast” because it is only used
for company. Here’s an example of my living room to give you an idea:



BUT, this is what my work center in my kitchen looked like when I wrote that post--I kid you not! (Within my first month of continuous crafting and blogging, things were on top of each other until it reached critical mass.)



.

By 5 a.m. the next morning, after working all through the night, I filled 18 clear shoeboxes with various art supplies that had been painstakingly sorted. My husband and I had purchased cabinets for everything to be labeled and stored in. I was starting to see that there might be a light at the end of the tunnel by the time these were stacked on my kitchen table.



My BIG surprise will be coming in a few days! (That is if God blesses me with fortitude--and blesses my husband with completing his brand-new “honey-do” list--you guessed it--putting the cabinets together!)

(Now, I am sure you can understand why I wanted Samantha from "Bewitched" to show up and wiggle her nose and clean it all up for me!)

Hugs,
Cindy

The Blessing of Friendship

When I saw this tag of Kim’s, I knew that I wanted to write an entry about friendship. We are definitely so busy these days that friendships--true friendships--can often be overlooked because of life calling at our doorsteps.

So, I wanted to give you a chance to ponder what various friendships are important in your life, which ones go back many years and ones that are the newest. Some may even be “online” friends. All are significant because they add to who we are.

We all know the difference between friends and casual acquaintances. The deeper friendships are those with people who care us even on our worst day.

Today after you read this, I am hoping that you will either call a friend or write to them to see how they are and tell them what they mean in your life. It could brighten their entire day! And this little picture could have spurred you on to make the world a little more positive for just one person--and that’s a big start!

Monday Message

Hi Everyone...
This week, my Monday Message is simple--"Clear it up!" What does that mean? Well, I have been struggling with a cluttered art space and I just got 2 large cabinets tonight that my husband is putting together for me...But, I've got to clear all art materials--paints, lace, buttons, flowers--you name it! It will take ALL week!

It got me to thinking that clearing things up is very cathartic and healthy...For some people, "clearing up" may not be about visible items. It may be about clearing up misunderstandings or even coming to terms and having peace about inner struggles.

So, I am wishing you a week that will make you see more clearly and give you personal understanding and deeper spirituality.

As I started this personal experience, I started hearing the "Rocky" theme in my head. I was wishing that Elizabeth Montgomery could come over, wiggle her nose and make everything end up where it needs to be...Hmmm, is there a bead from Hobby Lobby that I don't own? I think so...but if that's true, I'm not sure which bead it is! lol

Have a beautiful week!
Hugs,
Cindy

Bible Tag and Winner of Mixed Media Piece!

Hi Everyone!

Here is a Bible tag for each one of you. I just love this precious little angel. It was created with graphics from Dezinaworld. For personal use only. Just right click on the image, save to your desktop, then print...Voila! Your very own Bible tag! You can put it on a tag and add ribbon if you like.



And now, the winner of this Mixed Media Piece--
Kim from Gypsy Angel...Congratulations, Kim!!!



The Link Party is in full swing thru Sunday, so everyone
please link up your favorite song--we'd love to hear
what it is! First, tell us what it is on your blog and
then come back here and link it up!

Hugs,
Cindy

My Favorite Song

Hi Everyone--

Well, the link party is in full swing and I wanted to tell you my own favorite song and I hope that you will share yours with everyone too! Just post the name of it on your blog and hook it up to the link party below.

For over 30 years, my favorite song was “Amazing Grace.” It is a beautiful song and one I still dearly love. But, the song “Waltz Across Texas” has to be my favorite of all, maybe not for the song itself but because of the meaning of it in my life.

I guess music evokes emotions that we attach to it and when it comes on the radio somehow we are transported to another time and place...that is the magic of music.

I also love “My Girl,” but that is because it brings back memories of driving with my kids to the beach when they were little and us all singing it together in the car. And I love anything country, oldies, Frank Sinatra, Patsy Cline, Crosby,Stills, and Nash, Rod Stewart (especially Maggie May) or the Beatles (especially “She’s Got a Ticket to Ride” and “8 Days a Week”.)

Music truly is the backdrop to our lives. What a wonderful backdrop it has been to a very blessed life!

Next week, the Link Party will ask one thing--what's your favorite movie? And don't worry, if you've got more than one, add it!

I will have the drawing tonight (Friday) for the mixed media piece and it's not too late to enter. If you scroll down a few posts and see it, you can add your name to be in the drawing for this signed artwork.

Hugs,
Cindy

Your Favorite Song

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Our Southern Home

Hi Everyone--
I just figured out how to make a collage (with the help and patience
of Heather!) and I wanted to post a picture of my New Orleans home.
Somehow, I guess with this being on the internet, it's easier to picture
people when we know where they're at and get a flavor for the area...

I just realized that Dayle has Simple Pleasures, so I am linking this up because one of my simple pleasures is planting a garden...I would tell you that it is rocking in the rocking chairs on the porch but lately it's been about 5,000 degrees here (just kidding!) so we are outside as little as possible.

If you click on the picture, it will enlarge it as it's a little difficult
to see in this size.

Also, if you would like to add your name to my drawing for the mixed media piece, please scroll down and just let me know.

The link party will be on Friday thru Sunday--put the title of your favorite song on your blog and let us know what it is!!!
I can't wait to know what it is!

Hugs,
Cindy

In Honor of an Angel

Today I learned of a challenge in which we were to use a dress form to create our project...And I made this in honor of my husband’s mother who passed away 2 years ago. Her name was Fannie and she was a highly spiritual person who took her five children to church every Sunday.

Six years ago when I was taking a graduate course in religion, I needed to research some Biblical stories. I was not sure where to begin to look for specific scenarios within the text that would prove my theoretical point. At that time, she was in her 80s. I called her on the phone from California (she was in Indiana) and she knew exactly which stories I should research, what chapters they were located in, and even began quoting them verbatim. I couldn’t believe it! But, she was a life student of the Bible and knew the material.

She sewed for many years and even owned her own business. She not only created beautiful items, but she also used that time to minister to customers and workers who were so very fond of her. When I saw this dress form, I immediately thought of her and I also thought of how rare it is to know someone with such a commitment to the Lord that they LIVE it on a daily basis. Fannie was one of those people.

This raspberry red “dress form” tag was created with commercial papers, embellishments, and ink. The female image is from Marie’s Freebie’s. It includes quilled flowers that were handmade by me.

It is being linked up to Tag Tuesday--hugs to Sarah!

and Rednesday--hugs to Sue!

May the Lord Bless You and Keep You

Guest Artist: Dayle

Writer/Photographer

When I first saw Dayle’s wonderful blog, I was so inspired. Her writing and photography are so delightful and exude a true sense of wonder. This stepping stone makes one not only feel at home in her garden, but also exemplifies her life of faith. When I saw the words on it, “The Lord bless you and keep you,” I thought of everyone who visits this blog. That is my wish for all of you.

But, indeed, God is already doing that. For whatever we have, it is because of Him--the clothes we wear, the houses we live in, the food we eat. All of it has been provided by a loving Father who meets our needs and is attentive to our prayers. Everything we have, we owe to him.

And how can we show gratitude for all He does? We can show our appreciation by expressing our gratitude verbally in prayer. We don’t have to wait to win the lottery to be grateful. We should be grateful every day--grateful that we can wake up to a new day filled with hope...grateful for family and friends who enrich our lives...grateful for a chance to share our faith with others. The list goes on and on.

As we walk on the road in life, not only is it important to “smell the roses,” but it is also important to take time to ponder higher ideals. That is what Dayle did when she took this photograph. She took the time to pass that beautiful message on to others who could be inspired by it. And now, this professional photographer and writer has been generous enough to share her work with all of us here.

As I walk through this day doing errands, talking to others and working on projects, I will think of this stepping stone and the message that it carries on it. With every step, I will try to be a shining example of what God wants me to be. Thank you, Dayle, for this enchanting reminder.

To visit her blog, go to: http://alittleofthisandthat2.blogspot.com/

Also, if you would like to be entered into my new drawing for the Once Upon a Time mixed media piece, just scroll down and leave me a message there--thanks!


Hugs,
Cindy

The Music of God

On Sunday morning, I woke up and checked my email only to find this exquisite digital art picture in my inbox from June at Junibears who created it especially for me...I was in awe as music has always played such a big part in my life and June didn’t even know that about me. I had to share it with you for this Monday message to ask you to listen throughout the week for God’s song in your life. It is personal and it is precious.

It reminds me of this Bible verse: “...he will joy over thee with singing.”

Isn’t that amazing?

Zephaniah 3:17 The Lord thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.

Please scroll down to enter the drawing for the mixed media piece!

An Announcement and a New Drawing!

Tag for Kristin (Christy's daughter)


Once Upon a Time--8 x 10 Mixed Media Piece

Here is an 8 x 10 mixed media piece on canvas entitled "Once Upon a Time" that I just completed...Predominantly robin’s egg blue in color, it was made with commercial papers and embellishments, as well as scattered sheet music from the Graphics Fairy. Made with gel medium and gesso. It includes tulle, lace, twine, and cheese cloth. (It is seen here situated on a black metal picture stand with black swirls, but it comes by itself--no stand included.) It is signed and dated on the back.

We all know the importance of home and how it is to be cherished.

If you would like for your name to be put in a drawing to win it, just let me know by putting your name here in a comment. Actually, I have not decided when I will pick a winner, but it will be some time this week!

I am linking this up to The Graphics Fairy--Hugs to Karen!

Also, the winners of the "Beautiful" Bible tags for today's Link Party are: Patti at Fill My Cup with Beauty and Concetta

But, there's ONE more thing....I made a surprise tag for Christy's teenage daughter--congratulations Kristin!

THIS DRAWING IS NOW CLOSED.



Hugs,
Cindy