Hannah and Laura

" 'Do you hear what these children are saying?' they asked him. 'Yes,' replied Jesus, ' have you never read, from the lips of children and infants you have ordained praise.' "

Here is Hannah, my daughter's daughter. She just turned one this month and had one whoppin' birthday party. Hannah's going to know how to celebrate Jesus' birthday with hers so close to His. She is a very sweet-natured and good baby. She's starting to walk by herself a little but is still too afraid to let go. How many times we try to walk by ourselves but are afraid when all the time Jesus just wants to hold our hands. I love Hannah so much.

Meet our youngest granddaughter. Laura is 9 months old and has the prettiest little voice. She almost sings when she talks and she's saying more and more every day. Talk about a sweet disposition--she's precious. Look--Laura's already inviting us to adore the Christ. She's learning so much from her 4 brothers and sister. She's cruising around furniture and has been crawling since August. I love Laura so much.

I am so blessed to have these eleven grandchildren, 2 sons, a daughter, 2 daughters-in-law and a son-in-law and my husband. God has given me more than I deserve and I'm so grateful. We're all going to be together, if it's God's will, for Christmas and we have so much fun. We'll all be able to worship together and we haven't done that in a very long time. I'm looking forward to our visit...

May God bless you and yours this Christmas and I'll return with more art, Bible readings and devotions in the new year.

These cards were created on playing cards on which I painted, adhered copied images and other ephemera, ribbon and I etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold paint.

Will and Cassi

Proverbs 13:1--"A wise son heeds his father's instruction." Here's Will. He's so much like his father that it's scary. They have the same sweet temperment; they look alike; they're very active people; they enjoy everything. If this child had red hair, he would pass for my son at age 6. I love it. My son now knows how interesting our lives were when we were raising him. Will is a pleasure and he does listen to his father's instruction or answer for it. He tries very hard to be obedient. This boy does love to play outside and is up for any adventure. I love Will so much.


Proverbs 17:6--"Children's children are a crown to the aged, and parents are the pride of their children." Here is one of my little "crowns." Cassi was three this December and is a joyful child. She can make you laugh by just walking in the room. She has a sweet disposition and a ready, winsome smile. She was her parents' little unexpected Christmas present. We'll never forget the day she was born was bitter cold and her Daddy had a big Christmas program that night. She was obliging and came about an hour before the event, but Daddy stayed with her and her Mom because most of his work on the production came before that evening. Sometimes we can't choose when our babys are born. I'd love to live closer to this little one; she's just a treasure. I love Cassi so much.
These cards are created on playing cards on which I painted, adhered their images, added other ephemera, ribbon and/or jewels and glitter glue. I etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold paint.

Zach and Emma

Exodus 31:1--"I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of crafts--to make artistic designs...."

Zachary is next in line. Four boys in a row in three years' time. This one is an artist who can reproduce cartoon characters. Here he has drawn one of the "Cars" characters. He also makes up his own and will cover the page with action shots of "things" in all positions. He has a very vivid imagination. When I was ready to make his quilt, I asked him if he had an idea of a design and he immediately sat down and drew a pattern (age 7), colored it and told me how he wanted it pieced. OK, a boy who knows what he wants. He's nine years old and is being homeschooled with his brother, Jarett. I love Zach so much.

"Serve wholeheartedly, as if you were serving the Lord, not men, because you know that the Lord will reward everyone for whatever good he does," Ephesians 6:7.

Our first girl! Wow, that was exciting. Emma was born three months after Zach. You'd never find a sweeter child. She is the epitome of a servant. She sees things that need to be done and does them before you even know you need it. She, like her brothers, Caleb and Joshua, likes to read--especially "American Girl" books. And she's the little mother to her new baby sister. Emma also is a an artist. She and I have exchanged Artist Trading Cards (I have a couple of hers on previous blog entries) and her mother has bought her scrapbook papers and stickers to use. It's a lot of fun being artists together. I love Emma so much.

Both of these cards started as playing cards on which I painted, adhered their image and other ephemera. I etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold paint.

Joshua

Proverbs 20:11--"Even a child is known by his actions, by whether his conduct is pure and right."
Joshua is Caleb's brother and he'll be eleven next month--catching up to his brother. The second child many times has to prove himself worthy as compared to his older sibling. Although these two have their disagreements, they are few. Joshua is into needlework. Everytime we're together he wants to help me fix sock monkeys, cross-stitch or knit--whatever I happen to be doing when I visit his family. I helped Joshua make his own scarf last summer--so hot outside you could fry an egg on the concrete. It looks great, too, so I made this card as remembrance of this event. He's such a sweet natured boy, but a fierce competitor. He doesn't like to lose and it's been a battle developing the right attitude when playing a game, but he's done it. The last game I saw them play he was actually happy playing the game and he didn't care whether he won or not. I love Joshua so much.

This card started as a playing card on which I adhered an image of Joshua, old music and other ephemera. I etched in gel medium around the edge.

Caleb and Jarett

Romans 1:7b--"I pray that God our Father and our Lord Jesus Christ will be kind to you and will bless you with peace!"
This is my second grandson, Jarett, who is also 12. What fun to have my first two grandchildren just 50 days apart. Jarett is such a sweet boy and I love him so much. He's such a good big brother to his two brothers and sister. Jarett was being home schooled for the first time this past Fall and seems to be doing well. He loves the great outdoors, enjoys riding his bike and playing computer games. He has a gentle nature and I see great things in his future. He enjoys helping others.


Romans 1:7--"God loves you and has chosen you to be his very own people."
This is my first grandchild, Caleb. He's an avid reader and at age 12 he's deep into the classics. His mom is homeschooling him and his other 5 siblings and doing a great job. He's also into reading the most famous book, The Holy Bible. For fun he listens to sermons on his mp3 player. He has the most awesome memory and is a wonderful big brother to his brothers and sisters. I love Caleb so much.

Both of these boys love the Lord and I pray they will listen to the Lord's guidance in their lives. They can both do great things for God.

I had the notion of making altered art cards of all my grandchildren the eleven days before Christmas. I don't know that this will be done but I'm starting by adding two today. This will be a tremendously big week for me, as it will be for most Americans--the week before Christmas. We'll see what happens. Of course, because it's blogger, I've got the boys in the wrong order on this page.

Both of these pieces of art started as playing cards on which I added an altered image of the boys along with other ephemera and book binding materials. I either stained or painted to add age to each card.

A Son Is Given

Isaiah 9:6--For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders." How many of us have been in Christmas plays or had our children perform in one. My cousins and I many times held our parents hostage while we "performed" our great Christmas Plays. My daughter, about age 9, got all her stuffed animals out and "acted out" the entire reading of Luke 2 one Christmas for the whole family. It's interesting how children can relate to the Christmas story. Each child imagines what it must have been like to be a shepherd, wise man, Mary or Joseph. What must it have been like to be the child, Jesus?
Did he know what was going to be "on his shoulders?"

This card began its life as a playing card on which I painted, glued a copy of a vintage postcard (courtesy of Deena, http://www.sweetannee.blogspot.com/), old music, decorative trim, glitter pens, and gel stain.

God With Us

"Matthew 1:23--"The virgin will be with child and will give birth to a son, and they will call him Immanuel--which means, 'God with us.' " How glad I am that what has been spoken of old applies to what is today. "God with us." These are words that hold comfort for the believer. Sometimes He is the only one on whom we can depend. What a promise! It is a challenge for every believer to rest on those words but when we do, we find true peace.

This art card started as a playing card that I sanded, painted, adhered old book binding materials (courtesy of my friend, Deena), ribbon, old music, other ephemera and a copy of a vintage image (also courtesy of Deena.) The Jesus image is raised by a glue dot and I have etched in gel medium and highlighted with oak and black gel stain.

O Holy Night

"On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him," Matthew 2:11.

This was a most holy night. The promised Messiah had been born. Everyone who saw Him was in awe and bowed in his presence. The Kings realized royalty when they saw it even when it was manifested in a young child. How many of us recognize the Savior when we see Him? Do we really see Christ at work in our lives? Look closely, he's there wanting to live in you. Just ask and share in the holiness of this season as you worship the Christ of Christmas.

This card began as a playing card on which I adhered an old Carol and a copy of a vintage image shared with me by my friend, Deena (http://sweetannee.blogspot.com). I altered the image by cutting and painting then etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold. Pray for Deena as she has breast surgery tomorrow. Thank you.

Peace On Earth

"Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests," Luke 2:14.
"Peace" is the heart cry of the world. We all want to live at peace with each other. Please note, however, that this kind of peace is conditional. "On whom his favor rests" is the condition. How do we become favored? Here are just a few that the Bible offers as ways to please God:

Proverbs 20:23 Be honest
Jeremiah 6:20 Don't be ritualistic
Romans 8:8 Have a sinless nature
Hebrews 11:6 Have faith in God
Proverbs 15:8 Pray out of a right heart
1 John 3:22 Follow His commands

There are so many more references in the Bible that books have been written on the subject, but the best book to read is the Bible itself. In it we gain the wisdom to please God and live in peace with him and our fellow man.

This is a little journal on which I painted, adhered a vintage image and tissue paper, etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold. I gilded the edges of the paper and added ribbons, gold rick-rack and charms, and added decorative paper to the inside of the cover. It measures 3 1/2" x 4 1/2."

Overshadowed

"...and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God," Luke 1:35. We're still overshadowed. God watches out for his own. He stills our anxious hearts and calms our worst fears. He allows the Son of God to invade our spirits and direct our lives. He leads us as we face the darkness that tries to overcome us. He helps us bear the burdens of life. What would we do without him?

This art has a playing card as the base on which I painted, adhered altered vintage images, stippled, etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold.

Do Not Be Afraid

"But the angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, 'Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people,' " Luke 2:9-10. We all fear the unknown and it is comforting when things are explained and we know what to expect. Though the angel was speaking to the shepherds on the night of Jesus' birth, the angel speaks to us on this day, too. So many are facing scary events, things that terrify them and cause them great discomfort. My friend, Deena (http://deenasstory.blogspot.com/), is facing breast surgery next Wednesday and needs the comfort that only the Lord can bring. Her friends and family are bringing gifts and other forms of comfort, but the Lord of All gives comfort that only He can give. This peace goes way beyond any earthly pacification. Turn to Him and trust that He will fulfill His promises.

This card measures 2 1/2" x 4" with the gold cording extending another 2" above. I have used computer generated images of an old book cover and a vintage angel. I then repainted them, added painted edging, lace, gold trim, gel etching and gold highlighting.

Angels On High

"Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men
on whom his favor rests, "
Luke 2:13.

As a musician, I've always loved the fact that the angels actually sang on that first Christmas night. Low and behold, the scripture never mentions their singing at all. It says "saying." What a blow! Songs have been written about singing and we sing Christmas carols and cantatas "like the angels." It doesn't really matter how the praise was given, it just was. No matter whether we sing or not, we must praise God either silently or openly. What a night that must have been.

I took a picture of the old carol and edited it, adhered it to cardstock, added other ephemera and a copy of a vintage postcard, gold trim and added jute cording, bells and buttons for the hanger.

The Proclamation

" When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, 'Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about,' " Luke 2:15.
Little did they know that they would be the theme of many a sermon. Could it be that the Lord would proclaim the birth of his Son to the lowliest of low on that Judean hillside? Who were they to witness such an event? Jesus came to everyone, the shepherds and the kings, and He comes to you today if you choose to accept Him.

The photograph in this collage is courtesy of clappstar at Flickr.com. The art is based on cardstock on which I adhered the photo and other ephemera and stippled with antique gold paint. It measures 2 1/2" x 3 1/2."

Pondering

"But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart," Luke 2:19. According to Webster's she "weighed mentally, considered carefully, meditated, deliberated and reflected" on the things that happened relating to Jesus' birth. There is much thinking when you're expecting a baby but the thinking only begins then. The pondering comes after the birth. Oh, that we would think so carefully about our Savior and consider him our treasure along with all he brings into our lives.

The base for this art is cardstock on which I adhered background, an altered vintage image, antique gold paint and etched in gel medium highlighted with gold in the corners. The inspiration comes from this week's verse prompt by Art In The Word, my Christian Yahoo Group.

Swaddling Clothes

Luke 2:7--"And she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths [swaddling clothes] and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn." Swaddling clothes were strips of cloth wrapped tightly around a newborn to simulate the constriction of the womb. A child would be quieted when they felt comfortable. They must have had to use a lot of swaddling clothes because they didn't use diapers then. Mary would have had to be prepared for the long journey with this result in mind. I also heard once in a sermon that these cloths were a precursor to the strips of linen wrapped around the dead before burial, like the mummies. So even at his birth, Jesus' death was foretold.

This card is based on cardstock on which I painted, adhered a drawn image and other ephemera and tissue paper. I etched in gel medium and painted with antique gold paint

Wishing You a Merry Christmas

"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord," Luke 2:11.
Christmas day has been around since the birth of Jesus, our Savior, Christ and Lord. Today, however, there are many people ignoring this holiday as a holy day. Even shops who used to use the word "Christmas" are using the term "holiday." There's no Christmas shopping this year, folks; it's holiday shopping. There are no Christmas trees this year; they are holiday trees. Don't give Christmas presents, dear ones; we now shop for holiday presents. What gives?! We need to step forward and announce to the world that this day is a Holy Day and the word "Christ" needs to appear or there is no holiday. Stand up for what you believe and be bold presenting the gospel message by telling shop owners how you feel. Does it matter to you enough to profess your faith? Think about it.

This tag was made on cardstock on which I painted, adhered ephemera, lace, ribbon, scrim and old text. I etched in gel medium and highlighted it with gold paint. The finished product now has jute cord, silk holly leaves, artificial berries and a jingle bell. It measures approximately 2" x 5".

The Decree

"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world....And everyone went to his own town to register," Luke 2:1, 3. It didn't matter how old or young you were, you were to register to be taxed. Just think if everyone in the U.S. had to go to their town of birth to register so they could be taxed. How many would go? Things are quite different now than they were. I can't imagine back then how demanding that would be without means of travel. Jesus advocated paying what was due the government in Matthew 22:21: "Give to Caesar what is Caesar's, and to God what is God's." People didn't have a choice and they accepted their duty regardless. We're so lax today that some Christians don't even vote, much less be honest with their taxes. Shame on us.

This art is based on a playing card on which I adhered ephemera and painted figures and stippled with black paint.

A Child Is Born

"For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace,"
Isaiah 9:6.
This prophecy was written hundreds of years before the birth of Jesus Christ. The Jews were looking for the perfect ruler, one who would relieve them of their captors. This one would be their king and mighty savior. Everyone would be happy and grateful and all would be well once more. Little did they know that this mighty ruler would come as a tiny baby born in a barn somewhere in Bethlehem, a small town in Judah. He didn't wear the clothes of royalty but he wore the titles given to him by the Prophet, Isaiah. Wonderful Counselor--one who gives worthy advice; Mighty God--the ruler over everything; Everlasting Father--one who cares for us forever; Prince of Peace--the Sovereign of comfort. This little baby was all of these in one. No wonder the angels sang "Hallelujah!"

This playing card-sized art is based on cardstock backed by old text and on which I adhered a vintage image, computer-generated text, paint, stain, and gel medium etched, dried, then painted. I added eyelets and ribbon. The items in the photobucket above and more are in my shop at http://www.creativecallstudios.com/lydia'slineage.html.

The Blessing

"Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!," Luke 1:45.
When the Lord delivers a message, there's no denying it. We are uncomfortable and uneasy until we do what He says. Elizabeth recognized the presence of the Savior the instant she saw Mary and heard her greeting. Sometimes other people recognize God's calling us before we realize it ourselves. I believe it is evident that the Spirit speaks to believers on behalf of others and we need to realize that when someone asks us to do something of service for the Lord, we should respond with a "yes." Most of the time, God has already spoken to us and we've denied the calling and when someone else invites us to work for the Lord it is affirmation of what has already been offered to us. God is always at work around us and we are lost in our own little world sometimes wondering where He is. Step out and accept His calling for your life today--in both little and large ways.

This ornament is offered in my shop,
http://www.creativecallstudios.com/lydia'slineage.html opening tomorrow. It is made on cardstock on which I painted, adhered a vintage image, etched in gel medium, highlighted with gold paint, added three crystal beads, ribbon and a piece of a frame for the stand. It measures approximately 2 1/2" x 3 3/4" with the hanger adding another 1 1/2" above.

Items in Creative Call Studios on Saturday

Here's a preview of my shop, Lydia's Lineage, in the new Christian On-line Mall, Creative Call Studios. Hope you'll visit me there.

Nothing Is Impossible With God

"Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God," Luke 1:36-37. The angel continued his presentation to Mary by telling her that her cousin was going to have a baby too. God really is in the miracle business. I know so many women who have not been able to have a baby, but God, in this day and time, has allowed so many alternatives to natural children through adoption and artificial insemination. I don't know all the moral reserves of some people but I do know that if I really wanted a child, God can make that available to me. Having children involves responsibility. Some people are unaware of the tremendous time involved with raising a child. Elizabeth was well-advanced in age when she had John but she willingly accepted the sacrifice of child rearing. Mary was a child herself, but she also knew God was giving her a gift. Let's take our parenting and grandparenting seriously and realize the miracles given to us.

This card's backing is on cardstock on which I adhered a dried Herbal tea bag, a vintage image, and paint. It measures 2 1/2" x 3 1/2."

The Workers Are Few

Matthew 9:36-38 states the words of Jesus: "When he saw the crowds, he had compassion on them, because they were harassed and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, 'The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few. Ask the Lord of the harvest, therefore, to send out workers into his harvest field.' "
In my church December begins an emphasis on missions giving. All our churches give to this special offering to send missionaries overseas and most of their support for the year comes from this offering. Many churches have missionaries on furlough speak to tell of their lives on the mission field. There are many more without Christ than with and the labor is intense so few want to sacrifice comfort, money, family and friends to make a commitment to service in another country. Things haven't changed much from the time of Christ as he tried to inlist disciples into service. Is he calling you?

This card was made in answer to a challenge by the Yahoo group, Art In The Word. It is based on cardstock on which I stippled antique gold paint and adhered a copy of the world from http://www.nasa.com/ and a copy of a vintage image and paint.

Wait Mary

"The angel answered, 'The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God,' " Luke 1:35.
I've always imagined what it must have been like for Mary to wait for the "come upon you" part of the holy conception. Here she was, a young girl, never involved with a man, wondering what and how this would happen. She had asked the angel, "How will this be, since I am a virgin?" (verse 37). When God decides, we ask and wait for his answer, looking to see how God will accomplish what he said. Since it is God, we can expect the unexpected. How was she to know what would take place in that short span of time? She just waited and watched and accepted his plan for her life.

This card, measuring 2 1/2" x 3 1/2," is based on cardstock on which I stippled antique gold paint, adhered an altered vintage image and an old text. I etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold paint. I also used ink and paint on and over the image.

Don't Be Afraid

"The angel said to her, 'Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God,' " Luke 1:30. What a revelation! When I found this angel, I thought of Mary and her encounter with the angel of God. This was no ordinary angel and no ordinary girl. This girl was "favored" by God. Her life must have been exemplary in every way--the perfect child. She was probably still a young girl as some scholars say she might have been in her early teens. How many children in this world lead such a life as to be chosen by God for greatness? I would think very few. We don't know how God could use us, if only we were ready to be used.

This card was an entry for Shabby Cottage Studio's design team. It is based on cardstock with a copy of a vintage image and background paper from Shabby Cottage S., paint, and gel medium.

Rest For The Weary

"Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest," Matthew 11:28.
What a promise! I haven't even started Christmas shopping yet; I'm exhausted from just visiting in-laws, children and grandchildren; I've cooked and traveled and have come home just in time to be in church almost all day. I'm weary. And yet, there are so many others who have it so much worse than I can ever imagine. I really don't know true WEARINESS. I really can't understand being really BURDENED. Even in my own world of weary and burdened, my Lord has given me rest. There is a sense of peace and joy one can only know in Christ our Lord.

This card is based on cardstock on which I've adhered a vintage image, painted and etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold paint. The background and image is from Shabby Cottage Studio.

New Events in My Art Life

I've joined an on-line Christian Mall called Creative Call Studios. All the craftspeople are Christians and it will open Dec. 1. See the press release below:



Creative Call Studios:
A gathering of Christian Artisans
Creative Call Studios has done what no other internet art site has done: brought together a diverse group of independent artisans whose work reflects their Christian beliefs and offered that work for sale to the public in a unique virtual market setting.

At Creative Call Studios, you will find the best work of juried artists in a variety of genres, including mixed media, collage, altered art, dolls, bears, primitives, folk art, contemporary art, wearable art, jewelry, paintings, sculpture, and pottery.

If having a “safe” place to buy your art isn’t enough, shoppers will also find shopping at Creative Call Studios is easy. Artisans accept a variety of payment methods, including, and most preferring, PayPal. We have created not only a beautiful website, but a user friendly one as well.

Creative Call Studios plans to launch the website with their Grand Opening on December 1. Make a point of putting http://www.creativecallstudios.com/ on your list of favorites. On December 1, grab a cup of coffee, pull up your chair, get your mouse finger warmed up with a few flexes and be prepared to admire and shop at the newest art studio on the ‘net. The artisans at Creative Call can’t wait to share their goodies with you!
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I've also been accepted to be on a creative design team for Shabby Cottage Studio, http://www.shabbycottagestudio.com/ an on-line shop that sells mixed media art and supplies for mixed media artists. I'm one of six members who design art objects with the articles Gail Schmidt sells and she choses one of our designs to showcase for her shop every month. I love the challenge and we all do such different work that it's fun to see what we create. The card at the top of this post was one of the pieces of art done on this team.

God has been so good to allow me to create and I try to honor him with my works. He made me and I serve him with whatever I have. Thank you for your interest in my blog as I continue to present devotional art works.

Thanksgiving Greetings

1 Chronicles 16:8-12
"Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name;
Make known among the nations what he has done.
Sing to him, sing praise to him;
Tell of all his wonderful acts.
Glory in his holy name;
Let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice.
Look to the Lord and his strength;
Seek his face always.
Remember the wonders he has done, his miracles,
and the judgments he has pronounced."

For Everything?

"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus," 1 Thessalonians 5:18. You mean for everything? For that? For them? For it? Yes, Paul was emphatic about prayer. Even in the most dire circumstances, we are to thank God. Sometimes that takes creative thinking on our part. Our interim pastor suggested we consider "The Hiding Place" by Corrie ten Boom, a woman who was placed in a concentration camp because of hiding Jews in her home. By God's grace she was able to sneak a Bible into the camp and the women were able to have secretive Bible studies. Corrie was compaining about the fleas, but her sister reminded her that the guards were staying away because of them and that they should be thankful for the fleas, too. When things are hard to explain and my plans go wonky, I remember "the fleas" and thank God for what I have. There is always something for which we need to be thankful.

This card is based on cardstock on which I painted, adhered an altered vintage image and a stamped design. I stippled around the edge with paint.

Entering His Courts

The inspiration for this card comes from my favorite song, Psalm 100, which happens to be the weekly challenge from my Art In The Word Yahoo group. Verse 4 states: "Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name."
I've imagined what it must be like to enter the gates of God and to walk into his courts. How could one image such without thanksgiving and praise. I'm trying to have a life of "thanksliving" so that everything that happens becomes a cause for thanks. Our God deserves nothing less.

This card's base is black cardstock on which I've adhered copies of vintage images with added gold gel pen, and gold and black paint. It measures 2 1/2" x 3 1/2."

Give Thanks

Psalm 118:1--"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever." This chapter in the book of Psalms repeats the last section of this verse five times. I think the psalmist wanted us to remember it. Like any good song, the refrain is repeated and becomes the part you remember the most. The Psalms are full of repeated phrases and this one is common. What a wonderful way to remind ourselves when the going gets rough--that He still loves us and that doesn't change.

This card measures 5" x 7." I used a copy of an old image, German text, bookbinding materials, computer-generated text and paint. I etched in gel medium and painted it with gold paint. I made this and another like it to send to my sisters for Thanksgiving.

Sunny Thanksgiving

It's time for giving thanks for all the wonderful riches our Lord provides. "Give thanks to the Lord, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done," 1 Chronicles 16:8.
This is the first of a number of Thanksgiving cards I'm making. How often we go through our days without once remembering that what we have is God's. I take for granted so many things and fail to express my thanks to Him for his provisions. Thank you, Lord, for all your good gifts to me and my family. Amen

I made this on a natural color 5 X 7 card. I used paint, adhered copies of vintage images, book binding material, German text and etched in gel medium highlighted with gold paint. I sent this card to one of my sons and his family for Thanksgiving.

Just As I Am?

The story about the woman caught in adultery has always been intriguing to me. Who caught her? How did they know she was there? Who was she? Why was she there?-- too many questions left unanswered. The most important point is that Jesus knew who she was and why she was there and loved her anyway. Can you imagine her thoughts as Jesus said, " Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?" "No one, Sir," she said. "Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin." (John 8:10-11) Imagine this continuing conversation: "Lord, you mean you accept me just as I am?" she asked. " Yes, child, because I know who you really are deep inside. My father made you to be my child and to follow me. Come on. Let's really live it up!" She bowed her head, then raised her eyes to him, "Lord, I am yours now, forever. I've never known love until I met you." He took her small hand and they walked away together--forever.

This art card is created on black card stock on which I adhered a vintage image and words from an old text. I stippled bronze paint, etched in gel medium and highlighted with gold paint.

Thanksgiving Gift Giving

Having been challenged by Amber, I'm offering this wonderful recipe. This is the most delicious cake using pumpkin I've ever tasted and its so easy:



PUMPKIN DUMP CAKE



one 29 oz. can pumpkin

one 12 oz. can evaporated milk

3 eggs

1 cup sugar

1 tsp. salt

3 tsp. cinnamon

1 box yellow cake mix

1 cup pecans chopped

3/4 cup melted margarine

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix first 6 ingredients until well-blended. Pour into greased 9 x 13 pan. Sprinkle cake mix on top, cover with pecans and drizzle melted margarine over that. Bake for 50 minutes. Makes 15 servings. Serve warm with whipped cream or ice cream or eat by itself. Yum!!!



Visit Amber at http://altered-art-by-amber.blogspot.com.

Plans for You

"For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future," Jeremiah 29:11. I've probably used this verse a number of times in my works but it still holds true every day. If we would give up our plans in favor of the Master Plans for us, we'd be happier people. There's a sense of rest and comfort in knowing you're in the Master's hands.

This art work is based on an old book cover measuring approximately 5 1/4" x 9." The pearls extend another 1 1/2" below the lace and the hanging chain reaches 2 1/2" above. I used a copy of an old image, an old handkercheif, old lace, costume jewelry pearl necklace, assorted pearls, wood disk, stamped design, a sticker, gel medium, gold paint and gel stain.

Measured

"Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you," Matthew 7:2. So often I catch myself doing just this--measuring people by the way they look, dress or act. I even judge people by how much they have or don't have. What a waste of time. God doesn't want me to do that. He wants me to accept them as His children no matter what. We'd all get along much better if we didn't judge people but embraced them instead. How can anyone know Christ if I don't display His love?

This art was based on cardstock, painted and stamped. I adhered a vintage image and part of a measuring tape then stippled with black paint. I measures 2 1/2" x 2 1/2."

The Gift

"Children are...a gift from the Lord," Psalm 127:3. Indeed, all my children and grandchildren I consider as gifts. Each has his or her own personality and abilities. All of them are healthy and happy children. What more can one expect?--Only that each of them come to know Jesus as his or her personal Savior. Many of them have already, and I look forward to rejoicing with the rest in their decisions for Christ. It's a responsibility for us as grandparents to nurture them and encourage them on this journey.

This card is based on black card stock on which I adhered a vintage image, paint, text, gel medium and gesso. It measures 2 1/2" x 3 1/2."

Making Music

"I will sing to the Lord, I will sing; I will make music to the Lord God of Israel," Judges 5:3.
It's great when one can combine the abilities that God has given. I feel blessed and yet cursed at times because I feel when I concentrate on one ability, the other goes wanting. It's hard to find the balance. With the coming holiday season, both art and music are used to the max. It should be interesting to see how all this comes together without pulling me apart. Well..., what a problem. If that's all about which I have to be concerned, happy me.

This card's base is cardstock measuring 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" on which I've adhered a vintage image, book binding material and old German text. The background paper and image come from http://www.shabbycottagestudio.com. I'm on her design team and we're concocting items from her store.

My Broken Heart

My friend, Deena, has recently been diagnosed with breast cancer. She will have to undergo surgery sometime between Thansgiving and Christmas. I was impressed to make this card and picked out words from an old torn up book that grabbed me. I might call this an "Impression Card." I've never had cancer and have known of only one other who has (and my daughter had to remind me of her.) I don't know personally the feelings Deena may have--I can only imagine.
It seems that holy platitudes would be confrontational to her at this point. One thing I do know--God knows her every thought and feeling and God is the only one who can give her the peace she needs at this time. No one else will be able to comfort the way He can.
Psalm 55:22 says, "Cast all your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous fall." Psalm 142:4 says, "I cry to you, O Lord; I say, 'You are my refuge, my portion in the land of the living." 1 Peter 5:7 states, " Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you." I feel that Deena is an answer to my prayer for an artistic friend, one who could understand the mind of an artist and her passion to create. Maybe God brought us together for a reason other than that. She is writing a blog to document her journey through this dark time. You can find her at http://deenasstory.blogspot.com. If you've had cancer, you'll know what to say.

Fruitful

Psalm 92:12-14 (excerpt)--"Good people will prosper and grow strong...They will take root...like trees that stay healthy and fruitful even when they are old." This is a promise for those who remain in Christ and depend on him even in their old age. It's so easy to give up when we're discouraged or challenged by what goes on around us. Our strength is in the Lord Jesus Christ who gives us all we need in those times. Look to him and prosper and remain fruitful.

This ATC/ACEO fiber art card, measuring 2 1/2 x 3 1/2 inches, is made from pulled yarn, tulle, thread and glass seed beads.

My husband and I made it through the big Missionary Commissioning Service last night even though the non-musician leaders jumped ahead of us twice. We remained flexible and cool-headed and continued as if it were supposed to be that way. We managed and did pretty well considering the fact that we're 59 and 60 years old. There were about 2000 people there and the crowd could have been intimidating if we had let it, but we encouraged each other with the fact that we were serving the Lord and not that crowd. We were amazed at the testimonies of the missionary appointees and challenged to work for the Lord as we saw two couples in their 50's commit to an overseas call. Before the event we said to each other that this would be the last one like this that we would probably do, but knowing that the faithful are used by God even into their waning years brings us to the possibility of even more service to our faithful God should he call us. Will we take the challenge? If God wants us, do we say no? We'd better not if we want to prosper and grow strong.

Morning and Evening

Psalm113:3--Early morning just before sunrise and late afternoon just before sunset are my favorite times of day. I love to see how God paints the sky in those moments and how the colors mingle and change by the minute. My God is a wonderful artist. My works are poor copies of the Almighty's creations. Nothing can do justice to the works of God.

This is a 9" x 12" watercolor and ink done many years ago that I found in a box of art stuff. Snow is not here yet but is soon to come. It's turned cold at night and windy in the day--definitely Fall weather. How I love the changing of the seasons.

Pray for my husband and me as we lead a few thousand people in music at our State Capitol Convention Center for a Missionary Commissioning Service tomorrow. This will be the biggest gathering of people we've ever led. We want the Lord to be glorified in our music leading and playing and ask God for peace of mind as we do so.

I Long For You

Psalm 63:1--"O God, you are my God, earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you, my body longs for you, in a dry and weary land where there is no water." Have you ever had that empty feeling. You have everything you need--home, family, food, water, shelter, transportation, friends--but something is lacking. Maybe that something is the Lord Jesus Christ. He can fill that emptiness in your soul like nothing and nobody else. Turn your life over to Him. Trust Him to fill the hole in your soul.

This art was based on card stock cut to 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" on which I painted a landscape and crackle finished it. I added old book binding materials and a vintage image and stippled black paint around the edges.

Helper

1 Corinthians 12:28--"In the church God has appointed...those able to help others." This verse lists great jobs for the church body to do like, being a teacher, a prophet, a miracle worker and a healer. Then there's this one: "those able to help others." This seems like a pretty small job compared to the other ones listed. Do you want to be among the "greats?" Then, help others.



This card is based on black card stock on which I adhered a copy of a vintage photo, old text, old lace, nylon cording, book binding materials, and fancy yarn. I etched in gel medium and highlighted with paint. I added a brass charm hung on nylon cording.

The Mask

Matthew 23 is the "hypocrite chapter" because of the many times Christ uses the term. Verse 28 is the focal verse for today: "On the outside you appear to people as righteous but on the inside you are full of hypocrisy and wickedness."
Many people will be wearing masks today. The word hypocrite comes from the Greek language and deals with acting on stage. The actor would carry a two-sided mask and change his character at the turn of the handle. His voice and behavior would change with the mask he had before his face. I'm a hypocrite sometimes--mainly because my real face masks my true feelings. This verse in Matthew, however, talks of acting like a Christian on one day but not on other days. If we are Christians, we need to act like it all the time so no one will call us a hypocrite.

This card is based on black card stock on which I adhere a copy of an old magazine photo and some book binding material. I made a mask of watercolor paper and etched in gel medium. I painted and then highlighted with metallic pen and glitter pen.

My Granddaughter's Art Cards

My darling granddaughter, Emma, has jumped into this art card stuff with both feet. She and I have exchanged cards the last few weeks and her Mom is buying her scrapbook paper and stickers so she can create. Isn't that that greatest? She just turned nine this month and I think I have a mixed media artist in the family. The card on the right measures 2 3/4" x 3 1/2" on which she has glued silk flowers, fun fur yarn and used glitter glue decorations. I think the verse for this card will be Isaiah 40:8--"The grass withers and the flowers fall, but the word of our God stands forever."

The card on the left measures approximately 3" x 4 1/4" and she has used a regular watercolor marker and sprayed water on it for this effect. She's used a flower sticker on the bottom and a crown sticker on the top. She added her text, "Joy falls like rain." Praise the Lord. She lives in a joyful house.

My other grandchildren are also very talented artists in their own styles and when we get together, we create! What fun for this artsy Grandma.

Three

Ecclesiastes 4:12 states: "Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken." The old adage, "Two's company, three's a crowd," is not necessarily true. I have two other sisters and when we're together the fun doesn't stop. The Bible indicates that three is a special number because of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Numerologists agree that three is a divine number. Three just seemed to be the word of the day for me today. Add another friend to the one you have and see if three isn't a strong number.

This art is based on a playing card, 2 1/2" x 3 1/2" on which I adhered a copy of an old family picture, German Fraktur text, wallpaper, book cover material, ribbon and other ephemera. I etched in gel medium and highlighted with black paint. I added the word, "three," and the number 3 in various forms. I had to take the picture inside early this morning so the coloring is yellowed. The original is black and white.

From Infants and Children

"You have taught the little children to praise you perfectly. May their example shame and silence your enemies!," Psalm 8:2 (Living Bible). How we can learn from children! They are so candid and uninhibited with their actions. When they sing, they don't care whether they hold the pitch or not, they just sing. I lead music in my church's Preschool and the 3 and 4 year olds sing the songs they know out loud and unashamed. We have a lot to learn from children when they sing the praise of the Lord. Is our praise perfect like theirs?

This art card, 2 1/2" x 3 1/2," is created on a playing card on which I adhered a copy of an old cabinet card, book binding materials, an old handerchief edging aged with walnut ink, ribbon, cording, old German fraktur text, and a brass key. I etched a design in gel medium and highlighted with gesso.

Family Ties

"If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for his immediate family, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever," 1 Timothy 5:8. An unbeliever, according to the Bible will not be allowed into heaven. This accusation is pretty harsh. The Bible, however, doesn't state that this is the unpardonable sin, so if this verse applies to you, get on your knees and ask for fogiveness and changes your ways. However, before I accuse someone else I need to examine my life and see where I'm not providing.

This card is a picture of my distant relatives and I couldn't resist the ties. I used a copy of the old photo, old music and text, book binding materials, an aged tag and paint on a playing card.