believe, create, inspire
She peers into my soul…amber angel perched upon the easel in my art room. Her eyes follow me around the room. Whether I sit or stand, she gazes deep into my being, calling forth the artist in me. Calling me to dare, to discover, to delight in all the good that blossoms in my life. When …
Can God make something beautiful out of something no longer usable? I must think so because the flowers flow from my brush and form around the rusted bumper and well-worn tires. Lime-green leaves emerge against the darkened earth, enticing the eye towards the car’s beauty—light streams through broken windows, a silver, glistening-watering can at rest …
Some of the greatest blessings one can receive in a lifetime are moments of clarity. Those serendipitous seconds when heaven shines light in the form of illuminated understanding—a perspective that cuts through the quagmire of confusion, ambition, and ego. All of a sudden, truth slices through the script we've been reciting, perseverating, that which takes …
Life is full of transitions! From child to young adult. From mother to empty nester. From full-time employee to retiree. With each new passage, some of what we used to do and who we used to be becomes obsolete. Transitions often require us to carve out a new identity, which can cause consternation and confusion. …
A stillness blankets the nursery while I rock baby to sleep. The sliding rocker glides back and forth as she nestles sweetly in my arms, her tiny hand fingering folds of flannel. In this moment, we don’t have to be anyone or do anything except rock. In this moment, we are enough—baby and Grammy, soothsaying away …
Use what talents you possess. For the world would be very silent if no birds sang except those that sang the best. –Henry Van Dyke Self-doubt is definitely one of the main culprits that keeps me from using my artistic talents. Pressure to be perfect discourages me from sharing them with others: I can’t put that …
Have you ever noticed that change can cause dips into depression? I sure have! In fact, even the anticipation of change can stir up sadness over leaving the old to pursue the new. And even though you are thoroughly convinced the new home or new job or new location is best, you might find yourself …
Why do I torture myself so? I ask myself this every time I start a new portrait. The beginning seems so easy: ideas grace the mind…an outline drawn…the hollow of a mystical person appears. But then it doesn’t take long for excitement to give way to feelings of helplessness as I enter into that dark space …
I sit in my art room, waiting for inspiration… An idea A purpose worthy of my time A face to grace the empty canvas The New Year dawns, and I want to open wide to possibilities. Even though the wall before me reminds that God is able to inspire, the room feels like a barren …
