"Come, sit with Me"

"Come, sit with Me"

24"x24" Original Oil on Cradled Wood Panel

No Frame Needed

Purchase This Painting

     Gosh!  A mission trip to Guatemala, a son's engagement, three birthday parties, and Christmas can sure make the time go by fast!  I had no idea that it had been so long since I blogged.  This painting was started during worship on Sunday at Emmanuel Fellowship, Sweetwater, TX.  I didn't get very far, but I sure knew where I was going with it.  I felt like I heard straight from the Lord on this one.  It excited me so much to paint it for so many reasons.  I think I accomplished the invitation of the Lord to just come and sit with Him.  I plan to do more of that this next year.  His Presence is needed in every part of my life.  What about yours?  

Essence

Number1 Sketch

Number 3 First attempt/ oil

Number 2 Inked

Number 4 Attempt/Oil

Number 5 Oil

Almost Finished!  Oil on Canvas

     I am being mentored by Pattie Ann Hale for another 3 months.  She's an amazing worship artist, whom I met and took a couple of classes from at the Gathering of the Artisan's in NC a couple of years ago.  She's assigned weekly assignments and this one has by far been the most difficult for me, but has truly been such a great learning experience. 

   My main quest over the last year has been to figure out who I am as an artist, and what my personal style is.  Her instruction has been on the spiritual side as it relates to art,  always relying on Holy Spirit to guide, and reveal.  This assignment started with an early morning doodle, which is number 1.  After analyzing it, she asked me to seek the Lord to reveal the meaning behind it.  It took me all week because I just wasn't getting anything.  Not until the very moment that I pulled out my colored inks to add a little color to it!  Then, I heard clearly!  (I'll keep that person message to myself, at least for now).  

   The next step was to try to create the "essence" with paint.  I had a very busy week, with very little painting time, so I  pulled out an old canvas to see if I could figure out what to do.  (At that time, I really wasn't terribly excited about the project).  I realized after  about 4 hours of painting that the previously applied texture on the canvas was not going to work for me.  This was only days before the project was due!  The night before it was due, I gave up the large old canvas and decided to meet the deadline, I would just do it small.  I'd run all over the place, given flight instruction and a million other things.  It was late and I was tired. I didn't have the brushes I needed and was just a little frustrated. That's Number 4.  

   When Pattie saw it, she asked me if I was frustrated or what emotion was having when I painted it.  She then gave me some pointers on getting in the Spirit rather than just painting.  My assignment for this week was to try to fix it...to go back into the emotion, back into the Spirit, and paint the ESSENCE.    I believe that I have!  I was at such peace when I began this last version, and my sweet hubby sat in the studio with me the whole evening, talking and giving me that much needed quality time.  I had some soft music going, and throughly enjoyed the process!  I have really learned a lesson!  I never ever, realized how much emotion really plays out in a painting, until now! 

  No wonder some paintings done during worship turn out so amazing!  No wonder just painting a pretty picture during worship doesn't carry the anointing!  I think I'm learning!  I might not be finished.  Time will tell.  Or, Pattie will!  Have you ever thought about the emotion going through the artist that painted the picture, or just the emotion that runs through you as you look at it?

Motherhood

"Motherhood"

28"x24" Original Oil on Canvas

Purchase this Painting

     I think the Lord has been teaching me about layers and depth.   Layers of his love.  Layers and depth of spirituality.  Seems like I've spent the last few weeks observing layers and depth in everything from depths of oceans to clouds in the sky.  This painting is a good example of layers and layers of color.  There is no telling how many layers there are of transparent oils.  The white that I used is the most lucius, buttery paint I've ever seen.  It's made by Richardson.  It makes all the other tubes that I have take a back seat.  This has a feminine feel to it, and I'm calling it "Motherhood".  My son and daughter-in-law are expecting their second baby in the spring.  Somehow, this just reminds me of the miracle of motherhood.  What do you think of the colors?

The Earth Groans

"The Earth Groans"

12"x12" Oil on Wooden Panel

NFS

    I signed up for this 30 Paintings in 30 days that Leslie Saeta organizes before I realized I would be gone out of country for two weeks.  I signed up before I even asked the Lord what to do.  It's the tension between law and grace.  Sign up and follow through, or wait upon the Lord.  I feel the Lord is calling me into a new place.  I have so many rumblings...I feel a season of finally finding myself is on the horizon.  The legalistic part of me is posting this as the first of 30.  But I am releasing myself from the burden of the "law", and will pursue what He has for me, however that may look.I'm going to take my time and pursue the Lord through my art daily, creatively seeking Him and his purposes for me.  If it's "postable", I'll post.  If not, I'll let it go.  But I will do something artful every single day.

    I've been seeing int he spirit lately, lots of atmospheric things.  I haven't gotten the skills to produce them as I see them.  This painting started out with something that I've "seen", but as I began to paint, the Lord revealed to me that everything in creation is groaning and crying out for Him; the return of the Living Jesus Christ.  I kind of got side tracked in trying to get that point across, so it didn't turn out as I expected.  Are you able to see the point?  

Birthing Place

"Birthing Place"

Oil on Stretched Canvas

28"x24"

     This was a painting that I started during worship at church two weeks ago.  I'm very new to oils and loving every bit of it.  I took a workshop from Nancy Medina  in the spring, learning to paint flowers from life, and learning about oils.  I highly recommend her workshop, and I hope to take another from her.  This painting began with a vision that had. I long to see heaven.  When I read Revelations I enjoy imagining what the throne room is like.  I've recently had dreams in which God literally opened heaven and I got to see in!  This one was inspired by one of those times of seeing.  I've enjoyed hearing everyone's interpretation of it as well.  What does it say to you?  Purchase this painting

What the World Needs Now

"What the World Needs Now"

12"x12" Oil and Cold Wax on Wooden Panel

Purchase This Painting

     Oh man.  I can't help but remember my life BC.  That is, Before Christ.  Enough said.  What the world needed then and still needs now, is His everlasting love.  

                                                             Purchase This Painting

"Narrow Gate"

     I'm posting this painting again, because today there was new meaning to it.  One of the best things about learning to paint with Holy Spirit, is that He is always doing more than one thing at a time. I love doing it. I love, love, love having absolutely nothing in mind except worshiping the Lord as I paint! I love trusting Him for the colors, and even for the next stroke. I love the freedom that comes from not having to strive to make a certain image. I love the communion that goes on between He and me as I paint. I love how He speaks to me in the finished painting. I'm always studying and asking, "What are you saying, Lord"? For me, this painting had three different messages just for me. It's been hanging in the Sweetwater Prayer Center for a few weeks now. Today, my best friend walked in, sat down and excitedly shared with me what the Lord showed him through this painting. THAT is also what I love...when it really speaks to someone else! Below is what he saw. Now, that he pointed it out, I will never be able to look at this painting different. Can you see it? Pray, study, and see.

1 Corinthians 3:2-3. I gave you milk, not solid food, for you were not yet ready for it. Indeed, you are still not ready. You are still worldly. For since there there is jealousy and quarreling among you, are you not worldly? Are you not acting like mere humans?

"Sail Away"

"Sail Away"

16x20 Watercolor on Arches Paper

Purchase this Painting

          Have you ever wanted to just sail away?  I sure have.  I've kind of wanted to do it this summer.  It's been a challenge.  It's been good, now that most of it is behind me.  Have you ever looked back and wished that you would have just sailed through the hard times instead of getting stuck in them?  That's me!  Hind sight is always better, isn't it?  When I was so tired...I wish I would have just "sahhhhed".  But, still the journey was all in all good.  Memories were made, and things ran pretty smoothly, other than an emergency room visit, and fast doctor visit, a few fowl words grumbled back and forth with my beloved in the stress of the moment.  I might not want to ever do it the same way, but I wouldn't give up the cherished moments.  The ones like a grandson sneaking into my room in the late night, dragging his bedding to sleep beside me on the floor...reaching up to grab my hand and hold it.  Or, the late night prayers.  I cherish the KP duty...where most of my grandchildren participated in a hurried dance of washing, drying and putting away of the dishes.  The early morning walks with the dogs were fun, and so were the one on one, hand in hand walks with a grandson; as we "snuck" away from the bunch.  All the questions about God, and the early morning devotions and prayer.  My goodness I could just relive all of those.   The cakes that were baked...the literal hours that it took to get the recipe read, and the batter in the oven.  Oh my.  Learning to sweep the floor correctly....and how to dust furniture with missing a spot...right down to emptying all of the trashes correctly...make the beds...cook Ramen... I sure hope that my babies always remember the memories that we made, and not the frustrations that we had.  I bet they will!  I know I sure will.  I am blessed beyond measure!  There is always time to "Sail away", and never enough time to enjoy your family!

Aged Tines

"Aged Tines"

Watercolor

Matts to a 20"x16
Purchase this Painting

     The models for this painting were some old and beautiful forks that once belonged to my Great Grandmother, Lillian Moore.  They have so much color and character, I just couldn't resist.  I did learn that such straight lines in watercolor are hard to achieve, especially if using masking material.  I hope you enjoy these.  

The Commission

"The Commission"

6"x6" oil and cold wax on wood

In Progress

Matthew 28:  16 Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go.17 When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 18 Then Jesus came to them and said,“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

     I haven't posted in the past couple of weeks, and went a short spell of not being able to paint.  Creativity can only be squashed for so long, and then something must be done about it.  I haven't worked with oil and cold wax for awhile, either.  I always enjoy late nights, when all is quiet and I can commune with the Lord as I paint.  This one was painted during one of those nights recently.  It's not quite finished, but I don't anticipate a whole lot changing in it.  When lots of focus being on the end times, I can't help but be reminded of the Great Commission.  It's not to shout from the mountain tops that the end is here, but to make disciples from all nations, and to teach them to obey God's commands.  When we are in that place, God will take care of us.  I also think about the scripture where the people were going to stone Jesus, and yet he walked right through them!  Nobody even saw him!  God either blinded their eyes, or did a super camo on Jesus!  I believe he will do the same for us, when we are in fact under his wing.  So, go....make disciples of men!  Make them strong in the Lord, and working in His mighty power.  If it is the end times as so many believe...Jesus is coming for a mighty, and strong bride!  The disciples that follow his command.  Do you know Jesus?  If you want to know Him, and don't know how...contact me.  I lead you to Him!

Narrow Gate

"Narrow Gate"

28"x22" Original Oil on Canvas

Purchase this Painting

     I painted this during worship at Emmanuel Fellowship Church yesterday.  I did something different this time.  I used my newly loved medium, oils.  I had so much fun doing this.  I just love painting as I worship.  There is something to pairing while you have your mind on the Lord...  I couldn't quite understand what he was saying in this painting until now.  It's so clear.  Scripture tell us in Matthew 7 "Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it.  Do you see the narrow gate?  Is it the one that you will enter?  Or will you choose the wide gate that ends in destruction?  I pray that while you have time to choose, you choose the eternal, yet narrow one.  

All Encompassing Lion Of Judah

"All Encompassing Lion of Judah"

28x22" Oil on Canvas

Purchase This Painting

     I love to paint.  There are some that just really excite me, and some that are just more satisfying.  This one is one that stirs up such excitement in me!  I did the underpainting in acrylic about two years ago during a worship service.  I wasn't all that happy with it, and have just kind of looked at it in passing.  Yesterday, I decided to get it down and rework it.  This time I would use oils.  I've just discovered  my love for oils within the past two months after taking Nancy Medina's workshop.  My husband was a little leery of me reworking it.  I think he thought I would ruin it.  I told him that I felt like I had nothing to lose but canvas, so I began.  I painted intuitively, without a reference photo or anything.  I determined to use the paints that were left over on my palette.  I recalled some of the "rules" that Nancy imparted to me, and began to feel such excitement as the painting took shape and as I began to contemplate who the Lion of Judah is to me.  There aren't words, really.  He is my All.  He is the Beginning and the End.  He's the one that loves me and also fights for me. Do you know him?

What a Dandy

"What a Dandy"

12"x12"

Original Oil on Wooden Panel

Purchase this Painting

     It's been just a few days since I got to paint.  Grandchildren coming in, church activities, and a new puppy!  Life is busy sometimes, but sometimes I just absolutely have to take a time out to paint.  It really is therapy for me.  I looked in my garden and couldn't decide which to paint first.  I finally chose these beautiful geraniums after contemplating how to get that rich and beautiful color.  I determined that Thalo Red would do it, and it did.  I love the contrast between the cool and warm colors, and the depth of the reds.  I was entertained today by my new little studio assistant, CeeZee, which was so much fun.  

He Loves Me

"He Loves Me"

20"x16" Oil on Stretched Canvas

Purchase This Painting

     I sure have enjoyed painting flowers over the past 6 weeks.  I took a workshop from Nancy Medina,  and it has proven to be one of the best things I've done for my artistic self.  These flowers are really special to me, because my sweet hubby dug them up and brought them home to me.  He knew that days before, I walked and scouted the dry pastureland behind our house looking for something colorful and alive.  I'd returned with nothing but the realization that we are definitely in the desert without spring rains.  There was nothing but parched and dry grass.  I don't know where the man found these beauties,  but he did.  It meant so much to me, that he would be scouting for me.  We put them in this old crock full of water and now 10 days later they are still pretty.  I used to play a little game when I would pick a flower.  I would pull the petals off one by one, saying, "He Loves Me...He Loves Me Not"...and hopefully I would be left with the "He Loves Me" petal.  I couldn't help but think of that as I painted.  I couldn't help but soak in the blessing of knowing that "He Loves Me". Texas has some of the most beautiful wild flowers in the spring when we get moisture.  This year has not been one of wetness.  However, as I blog this today, we have measured 2.5 inches of rain!  Perhaps those beauties will not find it too late to pop their little heads out!

     

Promises Reign

"Promises Reign"

16"x20" Original Oil

Purchase this Painting

     This marks another Mother's Day; one that I will mark down for all time in history.  It's the one that I will always remember.  For 19 years I prayed.  My heart grieved at the loss of my youngest son.  The one that I lost custody of.  In those days, it wasn't heard of to lose a child unless a mother was unfit as a mother.  But, I did.  For all those years I wanted relationship.  I prayed when I didn't even know how to pray.  Seems like everything came against me.  Then, I began to learn how to pray.  It was when I knew that something had to change or I wouldn't make it.  I had two older sons; it was for them that I lived.  Still, as a mother with a lost little sheep out there it was so very hard to hang on.  I learned to hang on to the One that would hold me...the One that would never leave me or forsake me. He was the One that would carry me through and teach me so many things.  I began to learn that all of his promises were yes for me.  I learned that God is all about restoration and relationships; between He and me (vertically) and between mankind (horizontally).  I learned that I can trust him.  That's what I did.  Things shifted and I traded my grief for trust and hope.  For those of you that have followed my blog, you know that my relationship has been restored with my son!  It's a miracle.  He's a miracle, walking out the plans that God has for him.  The other years were spent in prayer for him to come home.  This year it was spent in thankfulness, because he has come home! Thankful that I have three amazing, awesome, and wonderful sons that walk in the favor of the Lord.  They are reunited as brothers, and our family has been made whole.

     Today, I had to trade the box of kleenex for the roll of paper towels.  My heart runneth over with thankfulness, gratefulness, and joy.  

    Is there an area of your life that has lost hope?  Can I just tell you, that if you can verify in the Word of God, that it is his will and if you are praying his will...the answer is on the way!  Do not give up faith and hope in the One that can do all things.  Never, ever give up!  Amen.

Haven River Inn

Haven River Inn

Comfort, TX

     What a joy to spend a few days here to recharge and get ready for the summer ahead!  This cabin is newly built, and has only been open for about a month.  We have the whole place to ourselves.  It is amazing!  It's anything but a cabin!  Breakfast will be served down at the main place in a few minutes.  The table will be adorned with beautiful tea pots, pearls and lace and we will enjoy a former breakfast.  The homemade granola and greek yogurt is amazing.  We'll be joined by John, the Inn Keeper and resident minister.  Yesterday, He prayed for us and our family.  He celebrated with us in the answered prayers that we've had, and is agreeing for those that we are praying for now.  Holy Spirit is definitely hovering here, bringing rest to the weary.  

Comfort

"Comfort"

16x20 Original Oil on Archival Canvas

Purchase This Painting

     Comfort, Texas is a haven of rest.  My husband and I came here to get away, rest, and spend some quality time together.  We agreed on "just us"for this trip.  I had to resist calling grandchildren and good friends to join us.  I wanted that.  But, I also wanted him.  He won out.  We have not really had any "just us" time in so long; almost a year.  We are staying at a beautiful place called the Haven River Inn, which is designed for a place of rest.  Ministers come here to recharge.  There is a beautiful river running through this place, and my hubby couldn't wait to get in.  He fished most of the day yesterday and I painted.  It's quiet.  No televisions, no noise.  He and the Lord.  Me and the Lord.  I couldn't help but think of the scripture in Hebrews that says, "I will never leave you or forsake you".  That's real comfort. God is so good.  As I look back, I can see so clearly how He was with me, even when I didn't realize it.  I know know, even when I'm the busiest that He is with me.  It's just so very good to take a time out once in awhile to reconnect with Him, and be quiet.   

Today is another day of comfort.   As we sit rocking on this porch almost silence listening to the birds, smelling bacon in the air, enjoying the presence of each other. This is the day we're going to do some exploring, and I'm sure laughing like we do.   

   

"Wild Thing"

"Wild Thing"

12x24" Oil on Canvas

Buy This Painting

     Texas!  I just love Texas, and the wildflowers that live here.  This has been a very dry spring, so there aren't nearly enough of these beauties.  There are a few survivors...these yellow ones and the daisy's.  I rounded up this crock to fit the look.  I can just see this one hanging in someone's Shabby Chick living room.  I had so much fun painting this one.  I wish you could see it in real life.  This crock really looks like glass.  I changed the color temperature and added texture.  I really wish you could see it!

"Sweet Fragrance"

"Sweet Fragrance"

14x16

Original Oil on Canvas

Purchase this Painting

     Song of Songs 4:16 Awake, north wind, and come, south wind! Blow on my garden, that its fragrance may spread everywhere. Let my beloved come into his garden and taste its choice fruits.

     I just couldn't help but think about the fragrance of the Lord as I painted this.  Man, He is so creative.  The very idea of how in the world he created each and every petal of these flowers wrecks my brain.  Then, to think of all of his creation...even the things that I don't know about.  My God is amazing.  I hope you enjoy this painting!  Tell me what you think about it.

The Hill

"The Hill"

6"x6" Acrylic Pouring on Wooden Panel

Purchase This Painting

     For almost every single morning for the past 6-7 years my husband has walked up on the hill that is not far from our house.  This hill is the highest point on our property and you can see for miles all around.  He goes up there for a purpose; for prayer and worship of God.  He first started going up there to be alone with the Lord. As I left out one early morning, I looked back and I could see his silhouette against the early morning light.  My heart was humbled and so proud to be married to this amazing man.   He started a little tradition of picking up rocks and depositing them in the ruts of the road leading up to this hill top.  As he would pitch the rocks in the road, he would say a prayer for someone.  

     Today, if you go up to this holy place, you will immediately notice a rounded out spot that has no grass, because those faithful feet have been planted there for so many hours. You might also feel as if you are in a secret hiding place.   You'll  notice that the road can now be traveled easier because the ruts are full!  One can not imagine how many prayers are marked by these rocks.  If anyone has ever asked him to pray for someone or some situation, their name is under a rock.  It's a very humbling experience, walking up that road.  Many times it brings tears to my eyes as I think about all the prayers that went up in my behalf, in order that my youngest son be brought back home for reconciliation.  Still, rocks and prayers go in daily for those other ones that we love and that need breakthrough in their lives, along with all the other requests that we have.  Sometimes I think that a handful of people have a whole rut full of rocks because that man is faithful to continue to pray for them.  That's why I call him "Faithful Feet".  

With this being our National Day of Prayer, I pray that many other Faithful Feet find their secret place to pray for our nation...the one that is under ONE TRUE AND LIVING GOD.

Lilly is Single.

"Lilly is Single"

14x16

Original Oil on Canvas

To Purchase this Painting

     Pretty Lilly here was the first painting that I did in the Nancy Medina workshop.  This also means that it is one of my very first oil paintings, done with a brush, and also done using fresh flowers as a model.  I chose this single big and full beauty very carefully, anticipating what kind of challenge I was up for.  I remember my heart was racing and I was beginning to sweat a bit.  I think that came from being among so many artists.  I know I began to compare myself to all the others before there was even a need to compare.  At the end of the day, I was unhappy with it, so I took it to my hotel room and continued to work.  I haven't had time to work on it until now, but I think a few days to soak in my training helped.  I've made lots of changes and I do love this one now!  My husband made the comment, that the glass looked just like a glass of water!  What more could I ask for? I am pleased with the sharp focal area and the subtle color changes within the painting. I think Nancy would really approve of my painting.   What about you?  Do you think the glass looks like it has water in it?  

Sunshine and Dreams

"Sunshine and Dreams"

16x20

Oil on Archival Panel

Purchase this Painting

     This painting was started on the last day of the Nancy Medina workshop.  We only had a few hours in the afternoon to paint, and the challenge was to paint a still life (from fresh flowers) with a clear vase.  The previous days were spent painting just a single flower, so this was a real challenge for me.  I carefully selected the flowers and arranged them, while contemplating whether or not I thought I could "do it".  Nancy sped through, kept pushing us to complete the steps in lightening speed.  I remember breaking out in a sweat a few times, in panic mode.  Finally, I had to just let intuition kick in and just "go for it".  I didn't complete it that day, rather got about 70% finished.  I brought it home and looked at it for a few days, wondering what to do.  Late one night, I decided to just "go for it" again.  I'm more than pleased!  My flowers are rich and my vase sparked with water!  I had to title it Sunshine and Dreams because of coarse the flowers name themselves and the dreamy feeling that it gives me causes me to anxiously await summer.  Can you think of a better title?  

     This one won't be going to Deep Creek Art Festival tomorrow.  It's not dry enough to varnish, but is up for grabs.  Follow the link above for buying information.  

Beauty

"Beauty"

16x20 Oil on Archival Panel

Purchase this Painting

     This one is a real beauty!  I painted this while taking a workshop by Nancy Medina.  We learned to paint from fresh flowers, and it was such a joy!  I kind of felt like I might be in heaven...the fragrance of fresh cut flowers along with a brush in my hand.  Oh my!  Nancy is a fantastic teacher, and I learned so much.  I feel that this painting speaks from my personality.  It's focused in the middle and rough on the edges, kind of like me.  I love the contrast and the sheer beauty of this full hydrangea.  What about you?  

Art Festival

You are invited

to 

Deep Creek Art Festival

April 25th 6-9 pm

April 26th 10-4 pm

Colisuim

Come by my booth and register for a 

FREE door prize!

Mention that you saw my blog and get an 

EXTRA entry!

     There has been so much preparation and anticipation for this event!  My studio is full of all sorts of pieces in all sorts of stages, from the beginning to the end.  I've begun boxing things up all nice and snug for the trip over to Snyder.  The family affair of trying to get a booth built has been an experience, to say the least.  My body is sore from climbing and bending, but it is almost finished.  Now, I await in great anticipation for some things that I've ordered just especially for this show.  There will be a variety of pricing and a variety of media from oil and cold wax, to inks, and watercolors.  Come on out and enjoy the fun!  

Little Hummer

"Little Hummer"

Alcohol Ink on 6" Tile

Contact me for Purchasing Information

     Although I haven't posted on my blog in a few weeks, I have been a busy bee.  I got accepted into the Deep Creek Art Festival,  in Snyder, TX.  I've never done a show, and so have had lots and lots of decisions to make, including making a booth, finishing pieces, and creating pieces.  This is one of my latest creations.  I have wooden boxes that hold these tiles.  I can't wait to get them in.  I love little hummers, and they have started coming to our back yard.  We can't feed them yet, due to the horrific wind.  I think I would have sticky juice all over everything!  I plan to do a few more hummers over the next few days.  I'm also going to travel down to the hill country and enjoy some solitude and solid painting with an artist that I've admired for a few years, Nancy Medina.   I'm so excited to refresh, meet new friends, and learn some new techniques.  The show is April 25th, from 6-9 pm, and the 26th from 10 am until 4 pm; all at the coliseum.   Stop by my booth and sigh up for a FREE drawing!

Transformation

"Transformation"

12"x12" Oil and Cold Wax and Mixed Media

on Cradled Wood

SOLD

     I've been working on this painting for over a year.  Layer upon layer of oil and cold wax, waiting for it to dry in order to add and subtract another layer upon layer.  It truly has transformed over the year.  It just rings so true with the transformation that each of us goes through when we receive Jesus as our Lord.  We become a new creation, and look forward to the transformation that will come in eternal life.  

He Loves me, He Loves me not.

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

Ready to frame 5x7.

Buy this Painting

     I enjoy working with these alcohol inks and feel like I'm getting better all along.  They do have a mind of their own, but I am beginning to learn how to make them do what I want them to do more often than not.  I can do these without much thinking.  It's very fun to create in this way.  Hope you enjoy it.  The sale of this painting will go towards purchasing blankets for the little Ugandan children.

Still Life #1

Still Life #1

14x16 Acrylic on Stretched Canvas

Buy This Painting

     An artist friend and I decided to do this little exercise found on Craftsy.  It's not my typical sort of thing, but I did enjoy doing it.  I had to abandon the lesson, just because I don't have the patience to sit and watch it.  I added some extra flowers and kind of did my own thing.  I enjoyed doing it, and love the contrast.  I think I'll try another, using fresh flowers.  That is, if they will ever bloom.  It's been so cold around here, I wonder if spring will ever get here.  

Promise

"Promise"

22x28 Acrylic on Stretched Canvas

Buy This Painting

     I painted this during worship at Emmanuel Fellowship Church, Sweetwater, TX a couple of Sunday's ago.  It was one of those days in which I had no ideas.  I was busy that morning with other ministry duties and couldn't take time to focus.  I was about to take the stage, with brush in hand and no clue.  It can be a little frightening.  I think of the musicians.  They take the stage and have practiced and practiced and have music in front of them.  They have a clue!  It's different with us artists.  I look at this tree and even right now as I'm writing the Lord revealed something to me.  I realized that this painting might have been just for me!  It is when I go out on a limb, that He always comes through!  His promises are always yes and amen for me. Why should I ever worry?   I wasn't thinking about that as I painted.  I was just thinking...what now, Lord?  What can I do next?   

   Interestingly, the sermon was on blended families in our "Family Matters" sermon series.  It spoke to my pastor, Eric vonAtzigen.  He thought it expressed the beauty of blended families.  My husband, Paul thinks it looks like a pathway into Glory.  I love prophetic art, in that it has a Godly message that can be so different and so personal to different people.  

Keep your Eyes on the Prize

"Keep Your Eyes on the Prize"

Ink on Yupo

5"x7"

     I painted this tonight while thinking about the prayer and conversation that I had with a very special Loved one today.  We all have our past and it is what keeps us from our future.  That is why God says that he remembers it no more.  This loved one is more than Loved.  He is an amazing man of God with such a great future.  Bless him, Lord.

Untitled

"Untitled"

5'x7" Ink on Yupo

#35

     

What is the Holy Spirit saying to you?  I've been praying about our upcoming Freedom Retreat at Emmanuel Fellowship Church.  What are you perceiving?

Tangled Up

"Tangled Up"

Ink on Paper 4"x4"

     #34

Quality Time is one of my love languages.  I absolutely love football season; not for the football, but  for the gathering of my loved ones into one place.  I have them all to myself!  Sort of.  I can't stand to sit still and watch the "boob tube" as my grandfather used to call it.  That makes me wonder, why did he call it that?  I reckon back in those days, those things weren't being shown.  I bet it is more appropriate in today's world.  Anyway, I'm finding that I need to find other avenues of art to do when I have a room full of family and can't get away to my studio.  One thing I'm doing is some iPad drawings which are harder to do than you'd think.  Another thing I'm doing is these pen and ink drawings.  They are quite fun and mindless and yet, you have to think a little.  My grandsons are also enjoying them, and pretty good at them.  My mother is hooked, and my friend Suzan H. Kennedy is doing some neat seahorses and using color to enhance them.  Check out her Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/suzanhugheskennedyartstudio

"Tristan"

"Tristan"

9x11 Watercolor

#34 Daily Painting

     This is our oldest Grandson, Tristan.  He's quite an amazing guy, in love with the Lord, and his PeePaw.  He loves to come and stay, and would stay forever, if given the chance.  He cracks me up, with his alarm setting in order to get up early and not miss a single second.  He makes every step his PeePaw makes and some of mine.  He loves to hunt, and is a darn good shot.  He has some really good God planted gifts inside of him.  He's going to grow up to be an awesome power house in the kingdom of God.

"Miss Natalie"

"Miss Natalie"

9x11 Watercolor on paper

NFS

     #33 challenging myself

     For those of you who may not know, there is an awesome story to my lovely Grand-daughter.  19 years ago, I faced divorce and lost custody to my youngest son.  I went through the next 10 years with all kinds of difficulties in visitation, followed by the next 9 years of total estrangement.  During that time, I found the Lord and devoted my life to Him.  I'd always prayed to be reunited with my son, but there sure was a long dry spell.  The last three years of the 9, I shifted my prayer and my hope.  Instead of hoping in my son, I hoped in the Lord.  It is through him, that nothing is impossible.  I'd kept my land line for so many years, hoping that my son would be able to contact me by phone.  Finally, due to telemarketers and frustration, I let it go.  I remember telling my husband that I had to "let go" and trust God.  We partnered in prayer, and began to pray for a Godly wife, the perfect laborer for the harvest of his soul, and for him to come home.  My husband consistently prayed that he would have a lonesomeness in his heart for his mom.  Well, last October I got an email saying, Mom... I've found Christ and I'm coming home!  Those were the sweetest words I've ever read on a page!  He found Jesus, and found me!  That was one precious time, four days later that he came home!  And with him came a Godly and beautiful wife, and my most beautiful grand-daughter, Natalie!  I'm so proud of this little family.  They are amazing in every single way.  They love God and are serving Him.  That is the most important thing of all! My God is amazing and so is his grace!  He has restored all that the locust has eaten!

     

Dancing with the Lover of my Soul

"Dancing with the Lover of my Soul"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

5"x7"

     #31 in 31 days...I've been thinking a lot about Justifying Grace.  That yes moment, when in a flash He was mine and I was His; Dancing with my bridegroom for all of eternity!  

30 Paintings in 30 Days

I'm better at painting than making collages.  I couldn't get this pic monkey to put the right spaces in, so I have duplicates.  Oh well.  Back to painting!

I'm going to continue on some sort of challenge...either painting or drawing each and every day.  Reading the Word of God isn't really a challenge.  It's a given.  Now, exercising, well...I could add it in there somewhere!    I'm glad that Leslie Saeta organized the challenge.  It's fun to see other works of art as well as see what I can do.

"Herbata"

"Herbata"

5"x7" Alcohol Ink on Yupo

     This is the last of the 30 in 30 challenge.  I'm bummed about it.  I just got in the groove, it seems like.  I think I might just continue on, challenging myself.  This "Herbata" is a cup full of polish tea.  I've never been to Poland, nor have i ever had their tea.  But I do like the word.  Some languages just have a nice rhythm to them.  I especially like the color combo in this painting.  The collaged stamp sets it off.  I think will also go into my card set.  

Tea Time

"Tea Time"

5"x7"

Ink on Yupo

     This one was so much fun!  It's number 29 of my 30 in 30.  I absolutely love it!  I combines different techniques along with collage.  I meant it as a gift, but not sure I want to part with it.  I think I'll have some cards made for sure.  I just love the texture and the contrast.  Love, love, love this one.

"Eli, Eli, lama sabachthani?"

"My God, My God, Why Hast Thou Forsaken me"?

5"x7"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

     This is number 28 of the 30 in 30.  This painting evolved.  I didn't start out thinking about eyes, but I did start out thinking about Jesus.  One stroke let to another, and I began to realize a direction that I was going.  At first, I contemplated being the apple of His eye.  I am that.  I'm so very thankful. Just as I was painting and enjoying my time with Him, I got a message from someone, saying that she was ready to join me in my business!  That is, my Rodan+Fields business.  I don't believe in coincidence.  I am at least one apple of His eye.  Then, as I proceeded it began to take on another feeling.  The one in which had to have come when Jesus took all of my sins upon him in that dark hour.  I think my revelation of that fact became even more real to me as I painted.  I am both grieved and so very thankful.  He took all of your sin, too.  Have you made him your Lord and Savior?  Do it; Before it's too late.  Matthew 27:45-46.

Spirit of Religion

"Spirit of Religion"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

5"x7"

     Number 27 of the 30 in 30 challenge.  I can't help but think of James 1:26 as I paint this.  It just has the feel of the spirit of religion to me.  I didn't intend on it coming out this way, but it did.  The noses stuck up in the air, the colors, the whole nine yards.  I hate that spirit.  It really is the one that crucified Christ, and is still so prevalent today.  

Red Bay

"Red Bay"

Work in Progress

16x20 Acrylic on Canvas

     This is still a work in progress and number 26 of the 30 in 30 challenge.  Yes, I know I signed it.  That was before I photographed it and see obvious things to change.  It all started with a bunch of left over paint on my palette that I didn't want to waste, along with an old painting from long ago.  I decided to reuse the canvas and am glad I did.  Some of the underpainting was just what I needed.  Red Bay is on the island of St. Maartin, on the French side.  It's a beautiful place.  There are some big rocks that make the water swirl and crash as it comes inland.  

"In the Full of the Moon"

"In the Full of the Moon"

5"x7"

Alcohol Ink on Yupo

     This completes my number 25 of the 30 in 30 challenge.  I used some of the metallic blendables in the sky on this one.  In life, it's very beautiful and luminous.  I used to wonder why my grandfather meant when he would say, "in the full of the moon".  I always just thought he should say, "full moon".  Now, I see it.  One of the seven wonders of the world is the Grand Canyon.  I remember standing on one of the cliff's some years ago, thinking, "God, How Great Thou Art".  It was a moment in time that I had with Him, which still resinates within my soul.  Somehow, this painting reminds me of that moment.

Blue Hole

"Blue Hole"

Alcohol Ink on Ceramic Tile

NFS

     This is number 24 of the 30 in 30 Challenge.  I had lots of fun trying these techniques on tile.  It's got a different feel than Yupo, for sure.  I had one thing in mind as I started, but sure didn't end up with the same thought.  It reminds me of a place that divers go in New Mexico, called The Blue Hole.  It's a small pool entry and goes down a few hundred feet.  When you are from our area with no ocean around, and limited decent lakes, The Blue Hole provides at least a place to get wet.  I haven't been diving there myself, and might go if there were something to see once submerged.  I understand that it's just pretty much a place to go and get some depth so you can count it as a dive.  

     As far as this piece goes, the next step will be to play and see how I can protect it so it can become  a coaster.