Frenzy and Fall

THE FRENZY:

Yesterday, when I turned on my computer, I was very concerned by the look of the screen as it booted up. I'm worried I may be losing my hard drive... again.

So... I began running diagnostics and found an error... but to complete the diagnostics I have to use a disc that came with my computer.

I love my laptop, but I must admit, I've been through two hard drive crashes - both covered by the warranty - but a pain all the same. So, I've kept these discs in a special place for several years now.

Well, wouldn't you know... I went to find them and they arent' there!

As it turned out, I had an amazing amount of energy yesterday. So, I began cleaning. Then I began searching for these diagnostic discs. I cleaned and cleaned until I was so tired I was ready to drop. I had an amazing cleaning frenzy... something I haven't done in a long time.

No... I didn't find the discs. But I feel so good getting some organization done AND, I also got two ACEO's begun. One watercolor and one Oil Pastel.

I went to bed and awoke with a horrible headache, achy joints and sore muscles (probably from cleaning LOL)

THE FALL:

Well, unfortunately, the energy spell only lasted a day. I awoke totally wiped out. It's disappointing to sleep through the night and awake feeling more tired than when you fell asleep. This is one of the issues that we will be addressing with the doctors at Vanderbilt.

But, though I still haven't found the computer discs, and I was completely worn out today, I really enjoyed my day. I love autumn and it was a cool sunny fall day today. I have a lovely fall smelling candle burning, and I was able to complete those two ACEO's!

So... as I say goodnight - I'll share one of the ACEO's with you. It's called "Autumn Romp". I painted it from a reference picture taken by another artist on WetCanvas! (a wonderful website for artists). It's the first horse I've ever tried to paint. It really reflects the feeling of the weather here today!

Click here to see it on eBay

Goodnight everyone!

Strength

"Strength"
ACEO - Oil Pastel

I don't often create abstract - but every once in a while it just seems to come out. This is my first attempt at using Oil Pastels. As I began, I knew I wanted to paint a cross - as I listened to a new worship CD a dear friend has sent me. But what exactly it would look like I didn't know.

It's titled "Strength". Though the cross at first appears to be falling over, you can see it's solidness in the shadow. And the clouds over head, though darkening the sky, are highlighted with bright gold and sunlit streaks are allowed through. The golden streaks appear as rain - and yet are lit up like sunshine.

Though life is difficult and we may face unexpected trials, the power of God is strong and holds us secure. This irony - things look bad, but God has a good plan - is what this piece of art represents.

I continue to hold onto this hope. Here are the words of a song on my new CD that have really encouraged me this week...

Jesus, Draw Me Ever Nearer
words by Margaret Becker
music by Keith Getty - recorded by Keith and Kristyn Getty
www.gettymusic.com

Jesus, draw me ever nearer
As I labor through the storm;
You have called me to this passage,
And I'll follow, though I'm worn.

May this journey bring a blessing.
May I rise on wings of faith;
And at the end of my heart's testing,
With Your likeness let me wake.

Jesus guide me through the tempest
Keep my spirit staid and sure;
When the midnight meets the morning,
Let me love You even more.

Let the treasures of the trial
Form within me as I go-
And at the end of this long passage,
Let me leave them at Your throne.

Another friend sent me this wonderful YouTube video I also wanted to share. It's beautiful and creative art! Enjoy!!

The "Strength" ACEO is up for auction - Click Here