Covered Bridge - Forgotten Place

"Forgotten Place"

11" X 14" Raymar Linen

NFS

When my cyber-friend, talented artist, writer, and photographer, Debbie Nolan (for a blessed treat, please visit her here!) posted my photo reference several months ago, I immediately knew I wanted to paint it.  For some reason, I am drawn to old wood structures – barns, covered bridges, cabins, doors, etc.  I love their imperfect textures, chipped paint and worn shapes.  They humbly boast scars from past experiences that subconsciously both intrigue and beckon me.  Oh, if we only knew!

When I asked Debbie for permission to paint this piece, she graciously said yes, and she also shared the fact that it hosts the carving of her and her husbands initials from years ago.  See – I knew it had a story!

Though this painting was a bit out of my comfort zone, it was actually quite a spiritual experience.  Throughout the process, the image spoke to me of God’s faithful promises – His love, guidance, protection, and deliverance.  For reasons I don’t need to share, I so wanted it to turn out!  Unfortunately, the depths of my motivation far exceeded my artistic efforts, yet I hope it will still speak to you…..

                                 “The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.  

                                   He makes me lie down in green pastures,

                                   He leads me beside quiet waters,

                                   He restores my soul. 

                                   He guides me in paths of righteousness for his Name’s sake.”

                                                                                                                      Psalm 23: 1-3

Feels Like Love!!

"Feels Like Love!"

6"X6" linen panel

Hey you – unconditionally loved by God, fearfully and wonderfully made in His image, spiritually hugged and never forgotten!  Just marinate in that for awhile this beautiful September morning.  Then, if you can, go for a walk, take a deep breath, feel the refreshing cool breeze blowing against your skin and through your hair.  Can you smell even the faintest hint of autumn? 

Look at all the ways God has blessed us with a beautiful habitat.  You know the first thing I notice is flowers, but let’s ponder a bit on the not so obvious – like all the different shapes, color, and density of trees.  Or look up and take notice of the sky – is it clear blue or adorned with perfectly positioned billowy white clouds?  Look a little closer - do you see any shapes you recognize?  So much to take in - feels like love, doesn’t it?

What else in your life feels like love?  Lunch with your besties, a heartfelt apology, family get-togethers, a surprise birthday party, a new baby, a fond memory, …….. or maybe a surprise visit in the form of a little blue mason jar filled with fresh cut flowers from your daughters work shower on your kitchen island when you got up one morning?    

One of our daughters is getting married this fall, and we have been blessed with family and friends graciously hosting and attending several bridal showers.  Every event has been beautiful, thoughtful, and generously gifted.  They have looked and felt like love.  It is with humble gratitude that we express our appreciation to all.

I am so glad that God thought of that noun ….verb….emotion.  And thankfully, it is His M.O. always.  

You are loved today!

God's Masterpiece!

I apologize for recent errant posts.  I know just enough about blogging to be dangerous, but I must say that Feedburner (the program that sends posts to your Inbox) sometimes has a mind of its own!

This re-post is actually intentional because it somehow had been deleted and also for the purpose of drawing attention to Courtney's (Caylees mom) recent blog posts, beginning with "Blessed with Mental Illness."  If this strikes a chord with you or anyone you know, please read and forward as God leads you.  It is a bit long, but well worth your time :)) 

http://clniehaus.wordpress.com/2014/08/12/blessed-with-mental-illness/


“I’M GOD’S MASTERPIECE”

8 X 10 oil on canvas
NFS

Caylee is a typical two year old with an angelic face that would melt any heart, and a spitfire personality that keeps everyone on their toes.  And unlike some, she knows what it feels like to be loved.  Caylee is cherished and doted on by a mommy, daddy and two brothers who also love the Lord.  And it doesn’t end there.  She is the apple of her grammy and grampy’s eyes, adored by another set of grandparents, uncle and aunts, not to mention great-aunts, great-uncles, cousins, and friends.

One day when her family picked her up from Sunday School class, she came bounding through the doorway in a beautiful “princess-style” dress with matching hair bow.  Her face beaming, she danced into the hallway and boasted in her small, sing-song voice for all to hear, “I’m God’s masterpiece!  I’m God’s masterpiece!”   Everyone giggled and found it delightfully amusing, but really, what an incredibly important lesson to learn at such a young age, having God’s truth literally written on her heart. 

Because God’s Word tells us that there will be troubles in this world, we know they are a part of every day life.  And sometimes the simplest of experiences can threaten our sense of self, our well-being.   If you were to make a list of all things that “define” you, that contribute to ”who you are”, what would it look like?

I think you’d find that so many of our descriptive words are contingent on changeable circumstances – things that can easily be threatened, or even taken away.  God wants more for us.  His love for us is unconditional.  He wants us to know who He says we are and to believe it, so that when our earthly identity is shaken or stripped away, we can still stand and say with conviction Whose we really are. 

I encourage you to make a new list - from Scripture – of unconditional descriptions of who you are as a believer in Christ Jesus.  Just for starters..............
          1.   I’m God’s Masterpiece  (“For we are God’s workmanship” Eph. 2:20)

          2.   I am made in His image.  (Gen. 1:27)

          3.   I am fearfully and wonderfully made.  (Psalm 139:13-14)

          4.   Everything God created is good.  (1 Timothy 4:4)

          5.   God loves me so much that He gave His Son for me. (John 3:16)

          6.   I am a temple of the Holy Spirit ( 1 Cor. 6:19-20)

FYI:  Caylee’s mom, Courtney Niehaus, writes a blog sharing her young family’s day-to-day struggles and celebrations, as they strive to be obedient to the Christian life God has called them to.  She is a gifted “creator” - as her writings, photos, and scripture will not only inspire you, but make you smile!    Click here to read her blog.

"Easter" Daisy!

"Daisy"

11" X 24" Oil on Linen Panel

Not for sale

Easter is less than two weeks away, and here in the Midwest, we have still been snuggled up in our homes, continuing to experience gray days and threats of snow storms.  It has been an exceptionally difficult season weather-wise, causing some of us to succumb to the winter doldrums and even depression.  But God is beginning to sneak in some beautiful spring-like days that give us hope of better days to come.

As we near Easter Sunday, we look forward to colorful eggs - chocolate ones too, of course - family gatherings, new dresses, and yummy food.  But we also ponder the reason we celebrate – that of the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.  Wow – risen from the dead and seated at the right hand of the Father, living to intercede for us!  Nothing short of a miracle – something only God could do. 

And if we happen to forget, God will make sure we notice His life-giving powers, as we see green sprigs emerging through the brown, buds on the tips of bare-branched trees, blooms from the crocus and daffodil bulbs planted long ago - even more “spring” in our steps!

This painting is of my little friend, Daisy.  The morning after I attended an art workshop on Painting Children last fall, I saw her performing her hula hoop in her grandma's driveway.  Full of inspiration, I seized the moment.  You may think that no big deal – a normal occurrence – and for most it is.   But Daisy is a living example of just one of God’s life-transforming miracles.  It is through much persistent prayer and years of perseverance that she is here and living a normal, everyday life in a loving, God-centered family – to Him be the glory! 

If you need a "miracle", if you need "new life" - please know that we serve a God who can do just that.  May the celebration of His resurrection give you hope. 

Enter His gates with thanksgiving and 

His courts with praise; 

Give thanks to Him and 

Praise His name.”  Psalm 100:4

Mr. and Mrs. Claus!

"Mr. and Mrs. Claus" 2013

Cards Available - Click Here for info!

4 1/4" x 5 1/2", blank inside, with envelope

Before we even entered the beautiful wreath adorned door, we detected holiday aromas of warm oven-baked bread and Christmas potpourri of cinnamon, vanilla, with a hint of pine.  What a warm welcome!  She escorted each of us in with a big, warm Cat-Hug (that’s her name – Cat – famous for her hugs!  We always look forward to a gathering at her home because a superbly gifted hostess she is!)

As other members of our bible study continued to arrive, the chatter volume gradually began to raise, the laughter level increased, and her fabulously decorated large home seemed to grow smaller.   Yes, love had established itself there.

Suddenly, the melodic tune of the doorbell rang.  Being near the entrance at the time, I played the role of hostess.  As I started to open the door, I took note of the “giggle, giggle” happening on the other side.  Smiling, I thought to myself, “More girlfriends!”

I opened the door, and in shock and awe, stood face to face with Mr. and Mrs. Claus - alive and in person.  “Ho-Ho-Ho – Merrrry Christmas!!” bellowed Santa.  Truly stunned and nearly speechless, I hesitantly decided the polite thing to do was to invite them in.  With the excitement of a four-year-old, I called the rest of the girls over as I ushered in our unexpected, yet very special guests.  A lot of gushing, ooh-ing, and aah-ing  took place, all the while Mr. and Mrs. Claus remained in character.  “Who is that?”, I heard some ask.  By that time, we had identified Mrs. Claus, but Santa remained a mystery until someone recognized her beautiful, sparkly eyes slightly hidden behind “his” unruly curly white beard and wire-rimmed glasses. 

So true to their loving, fun, and creative nature, Trudy and Jamie, came bearing gifts that we will never forget - hugs, laughter to the point of tears (and other things), and joy in Him.   No material gifts were exchanged that day, and even if there were, they'd have been forgotten by now.  What remains though are the relationships and the experience we had together.  And that is just what Jesus wants with you. 

There is some controversy as to why Santa’s big entrance coincides with Jesus’ birthday.  While they both come bearing gifts, Santa makes his cameo appearance on Christmas Eve, mysteriously landing on our roofs, and somehow sliding his rotund and heavy clothed body down our soot lined chimneys, leaving generous gifts that have miraculously escaped the filth of the fireplace.   After making his deposit, Santa is off to the North Pole, never to be heard from again - until next year.  There are toys, dolls, video games, clothing, pajamas, books, and games – if you’re one of the lucky ones.  All great fun, but most soon lose their favor in the hours, days, or months to follow. 

So not like Jesus.  See, on Christmas (Jesus’ birthday), Jesus was, and is, God’s greatest gift to the world because in Him is eternal life that never loses its value in our lives.  And if that isn’t enough, Jesus Himself comes bearing gifts to those that seek Him with all their hearts.  He never dumps His gifts and flies back home – actually, He takes up residence in us and promises never to leave us.   And His gifts keep coming throughout the year as He demonstrates His mercy, grace, presence, and love daily.

Oh it is fun to visit Santa at the Mall, get great photos of our children, our pets, or even ourselves!  Those can certainly be loving memories etched in our hearts.  But if you are looking for more than a memory, someone who understands your deepest needs and desires, you don’t have to wait til next Christmas to sit to the lap of Santa.  You can run today to the Cross of Christ, King of Kings and the Lord of Lords!

P.S.  Many thanks to the girls in the Angels of the Morning bible study for an unforgettable Christmas luncheon. (And by the way, they know they are not real angels – but, some would say they are to each other!)  

Open the Eyes of My Heart

"Open the Eyes of My Heart"

8" by 8" Oil on Canvas Board

NFS

Study done at Nancy Franke's Workshop in Atlanta, October 2013

To see her fabulous work, click here !!!  

You know I hate it when God makes me come clean with you guys – well, it was one of those days.  Having been gone for a week, I had planned the day to catch up  on everything I didn’t do last week.  After all, Thanksgiving is just next week and there are bedrooms and bathrooms to clean, turkeys to fry, and pies to buy (bet ya thought I was gonna say bake!)  Then we do it all over again the next week for Christmas –well, it seems like it’s that soon. 

So, I was behind schedule and rushed to Schnucks for the second time that day – had forgotten three things that grew in to six.  Got a great parking space, and before I even got out of my car, I heard the familiar jingle of the Salvation Army bells.  As I approached the double doors, there was an older gentleman (probably about my age) manning the bucket and sure enough, he (not really a vocalist) began singing Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer.  Yep, loud enough for the whole parking lot to hear.  Who does that?

While silently admiring his boldness, since I was on a mission I simply smiled and nodded as I passed by, then made a mental note to have some cash in hand on my way out.   Shopping was a breeze but feeling a bit weary, I eyed the coffee bar on the way out.  The aroma won me over, so I stopped for a cup of their special Holiday Blend Coffee – hoping it was just the pick-me-up I needed.  Juggling the extra-large bag of dog food draped over the top of one of those new extra-small carts, my purse, and my coffee, I trudged toward my car. 

Jingle, jingle.  There he was again, only his tune had changed to Frosty the Snowman.  Well, Lord, I’ll have to donate another time – this is just not convenient right now.  I mean, I’d have to find a place to sit my Gourmet Coffee so I could dig through my Designer Purse to find some real money - doubt he takes plastic - not enough time.

A bit uncomfortable, I kept my eyes straight ahead, and after unloading my groceries, I looked for a place nearby to return my cart.  The closest one was way down the row and I didn’t want to walk that far (it was a bit chilly.)  I guess when you get such a great parking spot though, it’s just as easy to return it to the store. 

Wait.  Seriously?  Looking to God, I said, “You are gonna make me walk past him AGAIN, aren’t you?”  No audible answer was heard.  Didn’t need one.  So, I sat my Gourmet Coffee in the drink holder of my comfy car, dug out some cash, shuffled right up to the singing gentleman and sheepishly made my donation, certain he was unaware of the conflict that had just taken place within me.  He said, “Oh, ma’am, you are making God smile.”  Uh, not unless God thinks stubbornness is funny.  Replacing the cart, of course I had to walk past him AGAIN.  He showed me his handy ruler that he brought to stuff all the money to the bottom of the bucket to make room for more.  I said, “You must be doing a good job!”  His response, “God is doing a good job – He’s just using me.”  OMG, could You be any clearer, Lord? 

Agreeing with him, I turned around, smiled, and said, “Amen!”   By the time I returned to my car (seconds), he began singing, “Open the Eyes of My Heart, Lord.”  (I don’t make these things up.)  I stopped asking questions, returned to my car, and sang that song out loud - softly, with the windows tightly rolled up - all the way home.

So, THIS AFTERNOON, I pulled into Schnuck’s parking lot.  Got a great parking space, and before I even got out of my car, I heard the familiar jingle of the Salvation Army bells.  As I approached the double doors, ……and I’m guessin you know the rest of the story :)

“Today, if you hear His voice, do not harden your hearts.”  Hebrews 3:15

Soul Food!

"Soul Food I"

5' X 7' on Canvas board

Available - contact artist

"Soul Food II"
5" x 7" oil on stretched canvas
Available - contact artist

I apologize for being gone for so long – I have greatly missed you!  As with most things, when you’ve been away for awhile, it can be a little challenging to get back into the swing of it (like exercise – ugh – still haven’t managed that one yet!)  SOOO, I reached for a simple object to paint – one that was handy, so I didn’t have to think too hard or go too far.  And, you know, since they say it IS helpful to be passionate about your subject matter – I chose FOOD to satisfy the void in my still life set-up!  And just as I had completed my second fruit painting, I received a message from my son about – you got it – FOOD! 

So, today I am pleased to present my guest blogger – John Murray!   (I have edited it down to a “blog-sized” article.)  Hope you enjoy!

“I never fully understood the whole combination of God, hunger, and thirst.  I know the Bible says that God can quench our thirst in the sense that when we are at our worst and desperately cry out for Him, He will come to our rescue.  While that is completely true, I’m not so sure that it’s exactly what is meant when talked about in Bible.  When we physically starve ourselves for a day at a time, or however long it takes someone to become “starving”, we reach the point where we will take just about anything we can get our hands on in order to satiate our hunger.  It doesn’t matter whether the food is good for us or not.  We simply don’t care, as long as it fills our stomach. 

Our souls tend to react in the same way when we don’t feed it every day.  What I mean by “feed our souls” is to spend time with God in prayer, meditate, read the Word, etc.  When we “starve” our souls of this time with God, they react just like our bodies.  We don’t care what we use to fill the void, good or bad, as long as it is filled.  The trouble is, there are plenty of idols out there just chomping at the bit for our invitation to sit on the throne of our hearts.

If we start our day with an empty stomach, we may be able to fight off the temptation to indulge in unhealthy foods early in the day, waiting for something healthy to come along.  However, as the day goes on, just about anything sounds good, especially the tasty, easy to grab, unhealthy foods.  It’s the same with our souls.  As our day progresses, we begin to wear down and become aware of that void, because we haven’t started our day with Him.    Then we are tempted to give in to the easiest, or perhaps even the loudest, voice. Those idols say they will satisfy us and curb our appetites, and they will, but only momentarily, making us want more and more, until we are completely consumed by them, yet never fully satisfied.  

That’s because we can only be fully satiated with God sitting at the throne of our hearts.  Just as taking care of our bodies is a life-long challenge, so it is with our spiritual life.  Regardless of our (in)consistent efforts, temptation will always be at bay.  But, He can extinguish all the desires that idols have to offer, because He is sufficient."

"I am the bread of life.  He who comes to me will never go hungry, 

and he who believes in me will never be thirsty."  John 6:35

Well hey – at least I chose fruit instead of a bag of chips!!!  And thank you, John, for your sharing your valuable insights that truly apply to every single one of us!