With Dignity, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

With Dignity

Alzheimers is a cruel disease. You read about it. You shudder not wanting to read about almost like you want to keep your distance from it in case it is 'catching'.

When my father was diagnosed with it many years ago, we embraced it as it happened as a family, but did not realize the burden our mother carried as she tried to keep things 'normal'.  She has grown a great deal since those first years as it almost cost her own life caring for him.

Over the past years we have read and implemented various things into the mix to deal with this disease as we watched it march through our father destroying his memory. At the same time we watched the effects it had on our mother and our entire family.

I am reflecting back today over this journey grasping memories from the past years and linking them to memories from his healthy years.  Dad is in the last stages of this disease.

Only my father would do it his way and not the way it is suppose to be. He retains his dignity, his grace and his 'gentlemanly' ways. His temperament stays even on moderate drugs and when you give him a sip of thick ice tea, his eyes sparkle and he says, "That is mighty good."

I am making new memories now with him, and realize even Alzheimers has not taken the core of this man... the spirit that God placed in him at conception 82 years ago. My father is dying with God's grace upholding him. Ever the gentleman, ever the caregiver, his words when spoken are often in reflective concern for mom and for 'the kids'.  In some ways he seems back in the 'now' and not the past.

Over the next month I am or may not be blogging as much as we have set our schedule to be in and out of Dallas on a regular basis to be with him and to be with my mother.  This 180 degree turn with his health occurred the first part of November and we watched this fairly heathy Alzheimers patient become bedridden and withdrawn. The nurses say it is part of the end of the journey.  My dad is walking this path with dignity and God at his side.

Words from my heart,
Laurie

“Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.” Psalm 136:1,26 NIV

Gaining Confidence, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Swimming Unafraid

Lady L has been taking swimming for almost a year now. She has graduated to the class that Mama does not have to get in the water with her anymore.  This is HUGE.

I remember last summer sitting with her in her little wading pool doing tick-tock songs where she would quickly dip her face and sputter out the water. The thought of her really swimming with her face submerged makes me smile.


As children learn to swim they start in the shallow water right by the edge of the pool or the steps that guarantee freedom from their building fears. With a solid foundation of lessons, they begin to build confidence to let go and slowly begin to feel safe anywhere in the pool.  With this new found confidence comes freedom and buoyancy as they take on deeper waters.

We must believe that we too can let go and trust the Universe around us to support us.  We can be free from our limited thinking and allow ourselves to grow in God's love in the world around us.

He surrounds and supports us through each day of our journey.

Words of my Heart,
Laurie

"So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed."  John 8:36

Clear Direction Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Needing a Map?

Living out in the country can often catch you off guard when you have only lived there for a few years. If you get into that driving zone you catch yourself looking around and trying to remember where you are. The landscape all looks the same.

Sometimes I catch my breath and frantically think backwards trying to remember the last thing I saw and recognized.

I watched this video of Lady L on her bicycle riding outside for the first time. She has been practicing riding around the house through the kitchen and around the big island and back into the den circling the couches.  Watching her outside made me smile... her head down concentrating on pedaling.

I think life is like that as well. We get buried with our heads down pumping as hard as we can and when we surface and look around we do not always recognize where we are.   It seems to be then we feel unsure and seek God's guidance. Often we do not know what those next steps will be. 

Where ever you are, God is there. Open your heart and your ears and you will hear Him give clear direction. It will be unmistakeable.  He will light your path or plant a new perspective to the situation.  Open your mind and heart to His Spirit. Be confident for God is good.

Words from my heart,

Laurie

"I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go: I will counsel you with my eye upon you." Psalm 32:8

Goodness Abounds Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Goodness Abounds...

You do have control over where you point your thoughts and prayers. When you expect good, you are directing your thoughts to finding the positive in everything.  When fear begins to crawl in, it is tempting to begin worrying again. I am really guilty of this one.  I have to literally turn my thoughts to God and put my faith in Him to walk me through this sudden dark cloud that has dropped in over my head.

Just take a slow deep breath... concentrate on the Lord and let out your air slowly blowing that  cloud away and refocusing on the abundance God  has provided.

Refocus yourself and realize you are on a steady foundation of God which provides you with the courage and strength you need. God is at work in you right now. Expect unlimited goodness.  It abounds all around you.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

"Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong." 1 Corinthians 16:13

Where have you been in life? Words of the heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Where have you been in life?


Have you heard someone tell you 'Today is the first day of the rest of your life?"

Did you even think about it as "the last day of your old life?"

I remember playing this game as a kid and all the different scenarios that were cropping up from losing your job to giving birth to twins.  Talk about uncertainty in your game life.... it was certain to be uncertain. 

So I am asking you now, "Where have you been in your real life?" What has made up the best parts of your journey?  ...maybe your wedding day, or how about the day you bought your first car?

For some close family members I know they feel the negative things that have happened in their lives have produced the most growth and most blessings.  The painful parts of our lives usually do bring the greatest growth and the purest joys once we realize we have emerged stronger and wiser. Learning from our own mistakes is the best way to strengthen our character.  These family members would tell me the best in their lives were their lowest times.  From those humble moments wisdom took seed. 

So no matter what has brought you to this day, know it is part of God's plan that you are exactly where you are at this time. Gain wisdom from what is behind you and live forward in God's love.

Words of my heart,
Laurie 

 Deuteronomy 17:19
It is to be with him, and he is to read it all the days of his life so that he may learn to revere the LORD his God and follow carefully all the words of this law and these decrees

Regardless of Circumstances, Words from my heart by A Texas Artist, Laurie Pace

Regardless of Circumstances...


On this day of BLACK FRIDAY... I cannot help but think of the unbelievable quest of the public here in the USA to go out and shop for anything... and for everything. The need in America for immediate gratification believing it will provide happiness is very sad. In contrast the word 'sad' is not 'allowed' in the life of the average American because they spend their time trying to avoid sad, yet one in ten Americans suffer from some form of depression.

A great-grandmother and the joy of her great grand-daughter.

At what point in life do we realize that the giving of stuff is not going to provide relief to the emptiness we are experiencing. It will not distinguish that burning pit in your stomach of not being satisfied. Working 10 hours a day under the pretext of 'I have to do my job' when you are missing out on family and moments of love, accomplishes nothing but leaves you exhausted and sad to be missing out on those special moments with your children, your family or your spouse.

Discontentment seems to be a growing disease in our lives. Constant stress of schedules and lists of things to get done tangle up our waking hours often robbing us from sleeping and rest.

How do we get back to finding happiness in this moment?
How do we realize happiness is found in what we have right now in our lives?  NO matter what the circumstance you can choose to be content in this moment.  No one leads this in her life by example more than my own mother. 

Words of the heart,
Laurie

The Road Unknown, Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

"Traveling a Road with Uncertainty and Expectation"

Church last Sunday was filled with so much power and love that it is literally spilling over to this blog.
A week ago we had a hands on healing ceremony for two of our church members. Both dear to us, but one I have known most of my life, Victoria.  She had surgery this week as did Andrea.  Our minister Jack led us in a healing ceremony anointing both women with oil from the Holy Land.

They two women sat across from each other as Becky laid prayer shawls on their shoulders and we all came forward to pray over them. The power that surrounded them was filled with love and expectation that God would provide for everything on their individual journeys.

Every day in life we each travel a road filled with uncertainty.  The phrase I borrowed above from the service was in conjunction with a coming bible study before Christmas, but the words ring true every single day of our lives.

We wake up each morning with such high hopes and expectations for that day. Often our hopes are crushed early when plans change and life happens. Hence the expectations and the uncertainty.

A good friend wrote me a tremendous email touching on so many wonderful things but something that sticks here is the physical world we live in has so many demands and we often allow those demands to destroy us and we lose sight of the spiritual world and our true meaning of existence to be an expression of God.  If we truly believe God will provide for everything we need, there can be no uncertainty, only expectation and love.

Words of my heart, inspired by others that have touched my life.
Laurie

I always thank my God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. For in him you have been enriched in every way—with all kinds of speech and with all knowledge—” 1 Corinthians 1:4-5 NIV

Giving Thanks... is it "Talk"? Words from my heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Giving Thanks... is it just talk?

Another 'job' we had in church last Sunday was to make a list of things we were thankful for. Jack was right on with this task and it brought a competitive nature out in most of us to make the longest list in the sixty seconds he provided.

I noted on our row, the four of us basically had listed many of the same things.

1. God
2. Spouse
3. Family
4. Church
5. Friends
6. Community
7. Homes
9. Our gifts
10. Our blessings

I think you get the point.  We were all pretty proud sharing that list with each other.

Then Jack had us focus back on topic.  With this wonderful powerful list in front of us and smiles of satisfaction on our faces, Jack ask us how much time did we actually devote to the top three items??   God was first on my list as He was on everyone's list, yet how much time do any of us devote to Him each day?

As you join with your families on this day of Thanksgiving, truly think of those things that are at the top of your list and make a commitment to yourself to make those things a true priority in your life. Make those top things COUNT not by word but by deed.


Words shared from my heart,
Laurie

"I am the Alpha and the Omega," says the Lord God, "who is, and who was, and who is to come, the Almighty."

Revelation 1:8

Do you Remember When... Words of the heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Do You Remember When?

Families ate dinner together at the table every night?

Families went to church together several times a week?

When going out to eat was something special to look forward too?

 When you put puzzles together as a family?

When TV dinners were a treat that mom would buy at the store for you when she and dad were going out to eat?

When singing together around the piano as a family was still considered fun?

Families that played charades?

Families that prayed together?

Playing cards together with your cousins?

Strumming your guitar and singing with your best friend?

Riding bicycles every day after school?

Playing outside until dark?

Sometimes going to bed at night without watching TV?

When everyone at the table ate what mom cooked no matter what it was?

AND there was always a sweet desert?



Words of the Heart,

Laurie

"But the meek shall inherit the earth; and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace."
(Psalm 37:11)

Survival in an Economic Recession by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Survival in an Economic Recession

So it became a continued conversation to remember the 'days of old' and stories from our parents and grandparents about The Great Depression.   I may have to write about this a bit and get your minds active in positive directions

In the 1920's federal spending was three times larger than tax collections. There were an average of 600 banks failing each year. Land and home values fell 40 percent.Unemployment was horrible because with the coming of "technology" many people were out of a job due to machines.  By 1929, the richest 1 percent owned 40 percent of the nation's wealth. Middle class was comprised of 15-20 percent of all Americans. The Construction boom was over. Farmer's share of the national income dropped  drastically.

 An artificial boom on the stock market inflated everything for a huge fall in 1929.
 More than half of all American were living below a minimum subsistence level. The Stock Market fell and the Federal Reserve cut prime interest from 6 to 4 percent.  Industrial stocks lost 80 percent of their value. The GNP dropped 31 percent in 1932.  Over 13 million American lost their jobs in a two year period.

I don't know about you but I don't want to go here or live like this.  What will it take to get your household and economic situation in hand?

Suggestions might be to do away with credit cards.  Wells Fargo argued with me for 10 minutes today as I closed my Credit Card with them. They tried everything to  get me to keep it.  I had to stop the agent three times and say,  "Please just close the account."  Terry and I have been on cash for about two years now.

Altho we continue to shop at Whole Foods, we try to stay within a budgeted amount for groceries and eating and work hard not to waste food. We are getting better each week as we learn more about what is healthy and needed and what are our wild comfort foods which tend to be expensive.  I have fallen in love with split pea soup and all its wonders and it is very inexpensive to make.  I made a chicken this week and it did not even taste good to me... I may be leaning more to vegetarian in old age.

Lets brainstorm some more... what can you do for entertainment that does not cost anything? God has provided us with experiences in life. Let's use the wisdom gained.

Words of the Heart,
Laurie

"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."  1 Corinthians 10:31 

The Hoover's Hills, a Flash Back in Time, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Hoover's Hills

Terry and I were watching the morning news with all the latest coverage of the Wall Street protestors and he said it reminded him of Hoover's Hills.

Okay, so I didn't know who or what Hoover's Hills were.

Back in 1932 as the great Depression pressed the American people, the veterans that had served in the war had been promised extra pay but the contract was for bonus money in 1945.  Here were these veterans starving and unemployed, basically destitute.

These men were promised $1.25 for each day  they served over seas and $1 a day for each day they served here in the states.   They were dubbed the BONUS ARMY as they set up camp across the river from the Capital at Anacostia Flats. They built their shelters out of whatever they had or could find.  Discipline in the camp was good but residents feared the growing numbers.  They only wanted their due pay to feed their families and to make it through the depression.  Read more here.  Their encampment was referred to as Hoover's Hills.

The Congress took up the bill to pay the veterans immediately and the house passed it easily. BUT then came the Senate. They defeated the bill by a vote of 62 to 8. The Bonus Army was stunned. The people of the United States were stunned.  Hoover did not want violence, but the order went out to evacuate the veterans.  Chief of staff General Douglas MacArthur dispatched six tanks and calvary troops led by Major George Patton. The cavalry arrived and the surprised veterans thought this was something being done in their honor.  They were not prepared for bayonets, tear gas and direct attacks by the cavalry. The 10,000 vets were removed forcibly from their 'hills'.

There were countless injuries, deaths that included children and infants and Hoover was mortified that MacArthur had carried this through so violently.  The residents were angered crying out in shame against the sudden attack.

Gene Policinski wrote a great blog article comparing this to the "Occupy Wall Street" movement.  Click here to read his October 17th post.

I am a non violent person so I have issues with so much that happens in the world around us. Civilizations seem to rise and fall. It is part of the history we read in the Bible and the history we know from the world in recent centuries.  I know not what His plan is for us here in America but I am truly tired of our current Congress and disappointed in the lack of true concern for the American people. 

Words of my heart,
Laurie

"I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety."
(Psalm 4:8)

The Guiding Light, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

The Guiding Light

Have you ever watched the clouds racing across the sky at different times of the day?  Morning clouds seem to scurry lightly as the sun breaks through. Afternoon clouds are heavier usually with some moisture or oncoming rain. Evening clouds are thick and adorned with highlights from the setting sun. Night clouds seem to race across the moon.  All the sitings of clouds are based on the light of day or night.

There is no darkness in the presence of God. In your soul the light of God burns brightly and is eternal. If God is truly in your life there is not darkness. You might sometimes feel there is when walking through a valley of illness or death...but His light is there guiding you through the trials and leading you forward to His grace.

If you continue to keep your eyes on Him and allow Him to participate in your life, divine light will be your constant guide.  Live confidently in His light.

As I watch my earthly father walk the path of Alzheimers, there have been more times than I can count that my heart clenches realizing this is the reality and it is not going to get better.  You cannot run from this disease when it strikes your family. You cannot find cures or doctors anywhere that can make it better.  God is the only source of light and hope as you watch your loved one begin releasing the essence of who they were here on earth into His care, soon to walk in His presence in everlasting light.

Words of my heart, Laurie

Saying Good-bye, Words of my heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Saying Good-bye

The circle of life includes the journey to death.  When we loose our pets that have been part of our family for years, we know they are with out the pain of this life. 

I have dreaded this day for the past year. Annie was diagnosed with cancer last Feb.  We had one major surgery to remove part of her paw...

And then we kept her comfortable through out this past year.  She was with us through so many moves and times in our lives and was woven into the fabric of our lives.

There is a small tear where she left our lives. An empty dog bed below my easel...and extra dog dishes on the back porch.  Paddy is walking around looking for her.

She has been with me through almost every painting I have created the past 14 years. Ever constant and every ready for love and a walk.

We miss our Annie...but know she is not in pain any more.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

Isa 65:25  The wolf and the lamb will feed together, and the lion will eat straw like the ox, but dust will be the serpent's food. They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain," says the LORD.

Every Moment of Every Day, Words of my heart, by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Every Moment of Every Day

As the day passes moment by moment, hour by hour...we build experiences in life journeying forward  past set goals and mileposts.  There are learning experiences daily and each brings positive growth. The destination is not important, but each moment of the day is important.

Along the journey be aware of new gifts that come your way and passions that grow to serve others. Every day learn something new about yourself. Discover who you truly are.

Each day in this journey brings you closer to God. Keep Him centered in your life.  God will lead you to your highest good.

Make every moment of every day COUNT.

Words of my heart, Laurie


"Put these things into practice, devote yourself to them, so that all may see your progress." 1 Timothy 4:15

Protection Against Illness is not necessarily the Flu Shot, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Protection Against Illness

Studies show that adults are healthier that are married and a happy marriage is the best protector against illness and premature death.  When there are children involved in the marriage, a happy marriage gives the best emotional stability as well as good health to the children.

Terry and I eating Chocolates....

It is part of human nature to seek out others through a sense of need.  We all want that perfect relationship that offers love and security.  We all want to connect to another human being at that deep inner soul and know we are safe with them.

God is our constant source for the best example of a secure relationship.  He knows our every weakness and our strengths. He loves us no matter what we do and constantly has our welfare foremost in His plans for us.

God is after all our front line when it comes to relationships and illness.  Look around your life and take inventory of your life and your relationships.

Laurie

“If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but have not love, I am nothing.”
1Cor. 13: 1-2

Letter of Recommendation, Words of my heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Letter of Recommendation


When you are on a job search or applying to college, everyone asks for a letter of recommendation from friends and employers or previous professors.

They are trying to establish a pattern in your character that would make you stand out as a candidate for the job or admission to college.

What would be on your letter of recommendation to the Father?  In the Bible it is clear good deeds are not the way into His heart.

All men are full of sin. Easy example is one of my own sins that I commit daily. Worry.  Another might be judging things too quickly; things, people or situations. My list is one I confess daily trying hard every morning to be aware and to give those things up to Him.

Instead of writing a letter of your glowing deeds and recommendations, how about a list of things you confess to yourself and to Him?

Words of the heart,
Laurie

But we are all as an unclean thing, and all our righteousnesses are as filthy rags; and we all do fade as a leaf; and our iniquities, like the wind, have taken us away. (Isaiah 64:6)

Do you Have Control? Words of the heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Do you have Control?

One of my favorite things I get daily is from Neale Donald Walsch. It is always a daily thought and a few times I will share his exact message reconnecting you to his site.  Over a year ago I jotted down something from one of his daily passages about control issues.

We have very little control over life.  We think we have control and most of us like to feel we are in control but are we?

Try as we might, our lives are always spinning out of control.

What you can control is your "internal world". Neale describes the internal world as the 'reality' within your mind and emotions.  This my friends, is the only world you can create and control.

How you live your life and experience things is totally up to you.  Your create what is in your mind and from there you build situations into how you view them. From there your emotions respond.

You cannot control the world outside, but you have control inside. Do not let your mind run away with things. Keep your thoughts and focus on the Lord and look for the best. Do not be sways by appearances in the outside world.  Lean toward God to understand and guide you in your reactions. We all tend to over react when there is no reason to.

So when your world seems to be spinning out of control, hang on tight and focus on on spot...GOD... and you won't get dizzy...everything will level out.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

 “But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD.”” Joshua 24:15 NIV

No Way But Up, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

No Way But Up

I wrote earlier this week about our spiritual and physical being in partnership.  As life progresses things happen. Illnesses, disease, and unexpected accidents affect all of us.

When those you love are hurting, facing health issues or even death, you must hold to your heart there is no way but up for the help and power to heal them either in this life or heal them as they continue on to God.

As with the changing seasons in His control, so are each of us in His hands.  With God there beside us extraordinary things will happen in our lives.  Just keep your eyes on Him above and your spirit in His grace and He will provide what you need during this time. 

God is good. All the time, God is good.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

"At once the man got up in front of them all, took the bed hehad been lying on, and went home, praising God." Luke 5:25

Spoiling the Child? Obstacles of Confusion and Discontentment, Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Spoiling the Child

Give the child what he wants.  Isn't that how our society is geared today? The wants and not the needs.
Why not spoil the child with what he needs?

In our marriage during tight times we began the ritual of sitting down and talking over any expenditures over $25.  We used that truthful measurement of NEED or WANT.

When teaching this to our children it was broken down simply: A need is something that you have to have to exist. A want is something you would like to have. It didn't work with Stacey Beth. All those orphaned Cabbage Patch Kids needed a home and that was something she had to have.

While we often want those nice things in life, the needs are truly the most precious things.

What needs does it take for true contentment? What is true contentment? Today's world presents a constant scene filled with obstacles and confusion that drives us to our discontentment and desire to have more.

What do you truly need to survive? What wants do you turn into needs?  This is what drives our discontentment.  This is what drive our economy in a downward spiral.  What is your basic list?  What is God's basic list? By the way,  I do not think it includes a hot shower, a cup of coffee or a working car. 

Learning to be content right where you are at this moment is the best. If you have food and covering you should be content.   God will never desert you or leave you 'needing' something. He will provide. He spoils us that way.  He will provide EVERYTHING we need at the perfect time and moment. His time. Not our time.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content.” (1 Tim. 6:6-8)

Healthy Living and Giving, Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

 In Partnership

We are spiritual beings that exist in a physical body. I find more and more as I grow older my "want to" exceeds the ability of my "can do". While this should be a partnership there are frustrating moments as in any relationship.

Considering things further, each of our "beings" is in partnership with our families, our communities and the world.  Even further we are all in partnership with the universe.

Working together in partnership it actually starts with your spiritual being. Praising the body that was created by God and knowing and accepting the limits of that body.  The divine life that gives us presence gives out to others in life.

Embrace the beauty of this partnership with God. Live healthy. Give of yourself to others.  Live in God as God lives in you.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

"Glorify God in your body." 1 Corinthians 6:20

The Sea Turtle Race, Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

God's 200 Million Year Plan still works...

I will not get into a discussion of years, creation or timing...but I will share the story of the Sea Turtle with you. They have been around since creation and God put a plan in place in their life and they have not tampered with it. It still works. You don't try to fix things that are not broken.

 

Movie by Dr Billie Bauman, New York

The nesting ritual of the sea turtle dates back to creation when Adam named them sea turtles.  This ancient process is the same today as it was then.  When the female turtle is ready to hatch her eggs, she bobs in the surf until the waves have calmed down and the cool of evening has arrived.  At that moment she moves over the sand shedding large tears with excess slat.  The tears protect her eyes from the sharp sand she crawls through.  With her flippers she digs a hole about two feet deep and crouches over it and lays her eggs.  In one season she may fill three or more nests with up to 100 eggs each. As soon as the eggs are laid, she will retreat back to the water, her mission complete until she mates again. Usually that is every two or three years.

Not all those eggs will hatch and those that do, the small hatchling turtles will make the attempt to run through the salty surf into the sea to begin their adolescent turtle life. Few babies actually survive as predictors wait  watching them dig out of the sand racing for the sea. They are literally racing for their life.

Do you ever feel that way about life?  You are constantly running to be safe and out of harm?  We do not quite have the life or death journey the small turtles have, but we certainly have to be aware of our choices in life making wise decisions.  Trust in the Lord and pray before you make the run from the nest today. Be sure of your direction.

Words of the heart,
Laurie

Psalm 104:24, 30

   "How many are your works, O Lord! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.... When you send your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth."

Waiting for the Right Moment, Words of my Heart shared by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Waiting for the Moment

I heard my grandmother tell me all the time, "Watched pots do not boil."

My husband tells me a savvy marksman does not waste ammunition... he waits for the right shot. It is for the maximum effect... to wait and strike when the time is right.

Many of us get up in the morning with our brains on overdrive for the day and a list of things to accomplish. Despite our well laid intentions, we never hit the mark one hundred percent.  We are pushing our limits and not hitting the mark.

Wait upon the Lord. You are far more important to Him to use up your talents and time wastefully running in circles.  You literally make too much work for yourself when you do that.

Be patient and abide in Him. He is preparing you for the best things because you are precious to Him.  Your talents are given to use to serve others, not yourself.  He will direct you accordingly, but you must wait on Him to show you the way. Have faith in His timing.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

"In the Shadow of His hand He has concealed me; and He has also made me a select arrow. He has hidden me in His quiver." Isaiah 49:2

"As for me, I trust in You, O Lord, I say, "you are my God' My times are in Your hand." Psalm 31:14-15

Growing Pains, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Growing Pains

Many people do not follow God.
Is it commitment issues?
Are they worried that God will expect more of them than they can give?

Roses and flowers He created for our joy.

God does ask for obedience.
Why?

Obedience actually frees you from responsibilities to enjoy His blessings.

His blessings include peace, joy, and a fulfilled life.
His blessings are seen in the world around us in His creative powers and in those that follow Him.

He does not always answer those desperate last minute pleas when you need something fixed.  He does more than rigging short term fixes.  He wants to 'grow you' into His grace and love so that you can find His simple abundance.

It may take some growing pains .. letting go and letting God is difficult. Obeying God seems really hard because we always want things to work our way. 

He offers an abundant life.

Words of my Heart,
Laurie

"He came to serve, not to be served." Mark 10:45

Ever Faithful, Word of the Heart shared by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Ever Faithful

Families
Spouses
Friendships
Neighbors
Dogs

There are people (and animals) in your life that are faithful with a shared relationship.

No matter what the situation they are there at your back with their hand reassuring and caring for you.

When you are committed to God He is ever faithful to you as well. He will lead you in the best way and He promises if you obey Him, He will protect you and allow you to prosper. (Again that does not necessarily mean financially!)

Most of the time His way will seem opposite of what you might expect. You will summon up courage and faith to walk the journey ever confident that He has your best at heart in His plan.

 His hand is on you right now... He is ever Faithful.
Ever Faithful

GOD
Families
Spouses
Friendships
Neighbors
Dogs

Words from my Heart,
Laurie

"Even if it isn't what we want to do. We will obey the Lord so that all will go well for us." Jeremiah 42:6

The List, Words of the heart shared by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

What exactly is on your LIST?

Do you keep a prayer list?
Is it filled with prayer requests for friends and family?

You might have some things on there that are specifics for you but it is time to cast ALL your cares on God. ALL OF THEM.

We get so focused on THINGS that we forget to give God our entire self for His care.  Why would you trust Him with praying for certain things in your life and NOT trust Him with your entire life?

He truly knows all in your heart and only He can free you from the burdens you carry. All of them.

These cows never worry during the day about food or water. They graze all day with occasional trips to the pond for a drink. These are tiny young calves and even they have already learned to just live simply knowing that the grass grows and the water is cool to drink. They will find as winter hits the rancher provides hay and shelters from the wind.  My friend, God is going to provide everything you need.

Words of my Heart,
Laurie

"Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you."  1 Peter 5:7

Having a Birthday? Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Having a Birthday...

Waking up this morning begins a new year for me.
 A new cycle, a new year, a new moment to begin this new age.

Celebrate life with me and the beauty of the miracle of birth.

So much love surges through me with thanks to two of the best parents God could provide.  He knew what was needed and He made it happen.

How we survive birth is amazing in itself... and then childhood... woaw. Surviving that and high school, then college, marriage and my own kids?

The cycle of life is a miracle of God.

Today can be a new start for you even if it is not your birthday. You can turn the page and begin a new one today. Do not carry forward any fears, angers, sadness, resentments or disappointments. LET IT ALL GO!!  Think of holding 'birthday balloons'  filled with all of your burdens.. and walk out side and release them.

Get on with Life!

Words of the Heart,
Laurie

“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God— not by works, so that no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV

Times of Illness, Word of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Times of Illness

Reminders daily of friends and family that fight illness fill my prayer list.

Some of you know that my summer and early fall has been challenging for both Terry and I, as I experienced a chronic health issue flaring up that literally leaves me tired, unable to do much and eventually depressed.

While I was wading through this flare up at the same time I continued to pray for so many others battling cancer, back problems requiring surgery, colon issues,  pneumonia, and even death. Illness surround us in this life.

When we fall ill and weakness takes over we have to remember that the illness does not rob us of our spiritual strength, only our physical strength.

There is no superhero, only God that can walk this journey and pull each of us up to find the best in the day.  Some people might question that you brought illness on yourself or that you are spiritually weak so God brought it on to you as punishment.

I cannot believe that. While I do believe I aggravate my health with irresponsible choices and avoidance of using the words, "NO I CANNOT.", I feel that God will walk through this time with me and it is a time for my spiritual strength to grow to "super hero sizes".  I must wait upon the Lord for His Healing and continue to deepen my relationship with Him. 

All challenges in life are a positive sign of spiritual growth and result in spiritual strength.  This prepares us for what is ahead.

Are you a team player in times of illness and trouble?  That is why we need to surround ourselves with a support group of believers.  They will keep you lifted up when you cannot.

Words from my heart,

Laurie

"The prayer of faith will save the sick, and the Lord will raise them up.… The prayer of the righteous is powerful and effective." --James 5:15, 16

No One Seems to Understand, Words Shared from my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

No One Seems to Understand....

Some days you literally do not wake up at peace.
Some days you wake up and your mind is humming with things to do and places to go.

No one can possibly understand what you are up against. Your life seems out of control.

Like these grape vines in the photo, our lives all seem to grow out of control climbing and grasping onto whatever we can to keep from falling back down on the ground.

That is why grape vine plants are carefully laid out in a field in rows with poles and wires. The caretaker wisely knows what is needed.  The plant easily grows along the laid out structure sending healthy runners in all directions.

It is not that no one understands what you are dealing with, it is that you do not understand you are truly not in free fall to the ground.  Take a breath.

God is still here with you. He provides exactly what you need to grow. Right now you have chosen to let go falling toward the ground, growing further away from His plan for you.

He knows you intimately and knows even the hidden thoughts of your heart. While you feel you are abandon and alone, you are not. Trust Him with this day. He has your plan in place for you to thrive and grow in His Grace.

Peace in the Morning, Pass it On, Words of the Heart Shared by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Peace in the Morning

At first light as you rise....
the day is new and dawn greets you with its beauty.

There is no television blaring in the background.
The children are still asleep....
and you have your first moment of peace.

Forget about the day's schedule or the problems at work.

Memorize and cling to this silence and beauty to nurture you through this day.

Share words of encouragement and give hugs of love to others as they rise.


This God given peace is contagious, and that is exactly His plan.  Do your part this morning and spread the peace.

Words from my Heart,
Laurie

"The Lord God gives me the right words to encourage the weary. Each morning He awakens me eager to learn His teaching." Isaiah 50:4

The Good Things in Life, Shared Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

The Good Things in Life...

What are the good things in life?

Popcorn at the movies?

A good book and a glass of wine?

A 25% raise in salary? A clean bill of health? Money back from the IRS?

What about the leaks under the slab... or a broken lawn mower?

Or what about that bad cold last month?

It is so easy to believe the 'good things' in life are from God and to be delighted when they come our way.  It is easy to pray and give thanks to Him for those 'good things.'

What about those difficult things we face in life? Are they not part of God's gifts as well?

God's gifts can come in what we might find as "painful packages" at times.  We often overlook that those packages are still part of His plan for us.   If you belong to God and He lives in your heart, He will use all things in your life to strengthen you and make your life richer. No matter where you are, He is there with you.

It takes our faith in Him to be confident that no matter what is happening in our lives right now is exactly what is suppose to be. What we find as difficult circumstances will pass, we will be stronger from the journey and then it is time for us to share with others 'the good things in life.'

God is good all the time.

Words from my heart,
Laurie

Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace, and be healed of your disease.--Mark 5:34