Words of the Heart

Everything You Took From Me, Words of my heart, by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-27T07:30:00.000-06:00

Everything You Took From Me

I was reading the newest issue of AARP (they start sending it to you when you turn fifty) and was deep into the article on Sharon Stone.

I shoved the magazine in front of Terry and he said,
"Wow she looks better today than back then."

"everything you took from me..."

How did she get there?

"everything you took from me..."

It is an incredible article that covers a journey in her personal life. A prayer shared with her by a close friend kept her sane and kept her focused on Him.

"Thank you, God, for everything you gave me, and thank you more for everything you took."

It was just yesterday afternoon I was on the phone with a fellow artist facing many worldly changes in her life. Her foundation is with Him, but she was questioning why change was so abrupt and so far reaching at times that it reduces everything in your world. "Thank you more for everything you took."

In church yesterday, Jack chose for the offertory, Luke 6:38:"Give away your life; you;ll find life given back but not merely given back, given back with bonus and blessing. Giving, not getting is the way. Generosity begets generosity."

It's that baseball bat theory... if you are not listening and focused, sometimes that baseball bat thumbs you hard across the head and sets you spinning. Spinning back to Him. Can you give away your life? Can you give away how you live your life? Can you trust Him enough to step out of your comfort zone and give it all up and start again? "Thank you more for everything you took."

Can you forgive things that have set your life on a course filled with doubt and anger? Can you give away that life? Can you accept what you deem as failure as a learning tool and fall to your knees and ask Him to pick you back up? Your bonus will be joy. Your blessings will be your gifts, and those you must be ready to share with those that have a need you can fill. "Thank you more for everything you took."

My recent vision has been more like a lump of wet clay. When you feel 'deformed' and unable to find your way or your identity or when things are just not working right, you have to give up where you are right now. God will work with you. The clay is wet down and reworked and reformed into something different; something useful; something that has the ability to serve and give to others. Giving not getting. Generosity begets generosity. God will do the same with you.

"Thank you God, for everything you gave me, and thank you more for everything you took." When I lost those things that I thought meant so much to me, I felt lost and desolate with their absence.

You begin to give back and fill me with new things, new gifts and new opportunities. I would have never let go of those things, but you knew... you knew I could not move forward with all of it around me, pulling me down. Those things were holding me back. I am made new only in You.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“This is how God showed his love among us: He sent his one and only Son into the world that we might live through him.” 1 John 4:9NIV

Prosperity Among Us, Words of my Heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

Prosperity

Good comes from God. Undeniable so, He is the source of all good. His 'good' moves throughout mankind creating a constant flow of inspiration and creativity which encourages action.

Our good is always present despite our worry of finances and the challenge in our economy today.

Good is in you and in me. Affirming it and moving forward in life to share good with others completes the circle... God is good. All the time.

In the midst of any circumstance we need only to affirm our unity with Him to know He will fullfil our every need to prosper. Our riches are not from our worldly goods...but from our divine Father.

Words of the heart,
Laurie

"And my God will fully satisfy every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:19

Celebrating Life Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-24T07:30:00.000-06:00

Celebrating Life

Do you have your list ready???

What is on your list to celebrate life?

Can you make a list of twenty things to do that you actually want to do?

It could be something as simple as sitting outside as the sun rises sipping a warm cup of tea or coffee.

It might be curling up on the couch by a sunny window and immersing yourself in a good book.

Or it might be spending two hours at your favorite book store, including a cup of coffee or hot tea.

It might be holding a baby and smelling that sweet baby smell.

It could be painting with friends... and getting away from your every day life.

Or spending some time with someone you love paddling around the lake on a beautiful sunny day.

What are twenty things that bring you joy that you can celebrate life? Make it easy. Keep it simple. God graces us with so many choices in life, make the best of them and choose wisely.

Words of my Heart,
Laurie

“Do not those who plot evil go astray? But those who plan what is good find love and faithfulness.” Proverbs 14:22 NIV

Ash Wednesday, Words for the Heart

2012-02-22T12:49:00.000-06:00

From our First United Methodist Church Mount Vernon Texas Email this morning:

"Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of the Lent season.

Lent is a time when many Christians prepare for Easter

by observing a period of fasting, repentance, moderation and spiritual discipline.

FUMC Belvidere Site

Ash Wednesday emphasizes two themes: our sinfulness before God and our human mortality.

The service focuses on both themes,

helping us to realize that both have been triumphed through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

The use of ashes as a sign of mortality and repentance has a long history in Jewish and Christian worship.

Historically, ashes signified purification and sorrow for sins.

The ash cross on the forehead is an outward sign of our sorrow and repentance for sins."

The image is from First United Methodist Church of Belvidere, Illinois.

Words for the heart,

Laurie

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18 NIV

Guidance to Give, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-21T09:24:00.001-06:00

Guidance to Give

Is it intuition or insight? Is it a feeling or is it knowledge? How do we know when to take action in our lives and how do we know it is the right action?

With all the complicated thoughts racing through our heads, it seems impossible to let them go to clear out the clutter and let God's presence into your mind. To be free of doubt or fear and to act in faith requires inspired direction from Him. And how are you inspired as we enter into the Lenten season?

Think not only of what to give up for Lent, but what to add for Lent.

1. Give up smoking Get better health

2. Give up sweets Get better health

3. Give up television Get better relationships

1. Add exercise Get better health

2. Add more prayer time Get more peace and balance in your life

3. Add more bible reading Get a fuller life

Take it one step further... what can you give up or add that benefits others and not just yourself?

1. Reach out and help one person each day with a chore they face.

2. Take a meal each day to someone that might benefit from it.

3. Pray for those that have harmed you and forgive them.

It is a win win situation... giving up to gain, adding to gain, and doing for others. Why not do it all? Jesus gave his life for all of us. What can we give in return to serve others in His name?

Words of my heart, Laurie

"Remember this, and take courage. Recall your rebellious acts. Remember the first events, because I am God, and there is no other, I am God, and there’s no one like me. From the beginning I revealed the end. From long ago I told you things that had not yet happened, saying, “My plan will stand, and I’ll do everything I intended to do.” Isaiah 46:8-10

I AM FREE, Words of My Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-16T09:48:00.000-06:00

I Am Free

There is responsibility that comes from spiritual freedom. We have the free spirit to speak words that uplift or tear down. While positive words encourage positive growth in ourselves and in others, negative words, finger pointing and judgements only lead to destroy others.

We are free to think as we please and we have the power to control our thoughts. We have choice and with it spiritual freedom.

If something occurs where your freedom seems limited, time to look deeper. Nothing or no one can hold you in bondage. You are not controlled by others. You are only controlled by your own limited thinking. (remember those squirrels running in circles?)

And Jesus said, "Come to the water, stand by My side,

I know you are thirsty, you won't be denied;

I felt ev'ry teardrop when in darkness you cried,

And I strove to remind you that for those tears I died."

My tears have fallen as I was lost racing those squirrels, but no longer will I be held in bondage by others.

God has more for me to do in life.

Words of my heart,

Laurie

"Now the Lord is the Spirit, and where the spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom." 2 Corinthians 3:17

Heart to Heart, My Valentine Rose Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-15T10:18:00.001-06:00

Heart to Heart

There is no place beyond God's love. It is so easy to ignore or forget the fact that His grace is bestowed on to all of us unconditionally without any request on our part. Unlike the need we have to please others to be included in their 'grace' or circle....God does not require that of us. We do not have to do anything to be worthy of His grace, we must only open our heart to Him to feel it. God is always eager for us to come to Him.

Earthly relationships seem to be filled with the need to please or seek the acceptance of others. God keeps it all free... heart to heart. There are no agendas required, no obstacle course to run, nothing to prove or do to win His acceptance. He loves you heart to heart just as you are.

Terry made my Valentines Day pretty special yesterday. It was a long stress filled weekend in Dallas with family; dinner out with friends last night soothed away the worries. Gathered at our Valentine's table were Sheriff Paul and Vicki (our high school friends), the Mayor and his lovely wife, and our "western dance instructor" the lake Sheriff JR and his wife Kelly. It was laughter, stories, wine, love and friendship along with a spectacular dinner. I had chicken but everyone else had prime rib cooked various degrees. Chocolate covered strawberries finished it all off.

Each woman at the table was given a beautiful single red rose. Heart to Heart.

When others try to steal your joy, keep your eyes focused on His love... He is with you Heart to Heart.
Thank you God, for your gift of grace and your unending love. I remain in your loving care.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"Grace be with all of you." Hebrews 13:25

Saying Goodbye, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-14T07:30:00.000-06:00

Saying Goodbye

Saying goodbye to yesterday opens a new day for new things to happen in your life. Saying goodbye is not closing a door, but opening a new adventure in another direction.

No matter what has happened in the past we are all enabled to begin again today. Let go of what was including your negativity. That is no way to live, only a way to die young. A fresh start comes with hope and newness. You are one with the Creator God as you being. With His divine love you can be filled with only the best.

You can be on your way today... are you ready to say goodbye?

Words of my heart, Laurie

"So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation; everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!" 2 Corinthians 5:17

A Peace, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-13T07:30:00.000-06:00

A Peace that passeth all Understanding...

As I woke this morning I heard the silence around me. There was a stillness in the room. A peace.

The past weeks have been filled with family, plans, life and death. Thoughts tumbling through and fragments and phrases of past conversations. For once this morning things were not competing in my head to be recognized.

I found a stillness that contained a pure peace. I decided to try and hold this peace through out the day. Not sure how far I will get, but I will try. I need to learn to release those controlling thoughts. The quiet power of this peace will bring me the ability to make this day with out worry. I have much ahead this day and God alone will guide me through the things that must be done. The rest can wait for another day.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

"For God alone my soul waits in silence, for my hope is from him." Psalm 62:5

Resolution, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

Resolution

Reading is a passion with me. Author Laura Frantz knows I take it all pretty serious and am really picky about what I read and the style of writing. She and Liz Curtis Higgs are two of my favorites as well as Lauraine Snelling.
A good book takes you from a beginning through the crises and learning period and finally to a resolution.

From Laura's Blog Jan 27, 2012

Predicting an ending is not possible when you are reading a well written book, or if you are living your life. BUT no matter what is happening, there will be a resolution. Both Laura and Liz write deeply knitting into their storyline the basic fabric of soul of their characters...their weaknesses, their inner hidden darkness at times. But they bring you through their stories with a yearning to keep reading and not put the book down.

Life is that way. We are eager to press on, sometimes too fast. Affirming divine order is the only way to maintain peace through the journey as you keep your mind centered on God. He is the source of peace, abundance and healing. Trusting in His Divine order is truly all you can do as life unfolds around you. Keep your eyes on Him. Each day is a step closer to Him and to your highest good.

I celebrate this day the life of someone very dear to me. He has found his resolution and 'continued' on to the Lord's House.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"Righteousness will go before him, and will make a path for his steps."

One Person at a Time, Perfect Harmony, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-11T07:30:00.000-06:00

One Person at a Time... perfect Harmony

Must be the week of old camp songs. Harmony, love and life. How does it all work in the world we live in? One person at a time.

Remember the old Coca Cola song?

I am NOT promoting soft drinks. We have never kept them in the house except for company, but this commercial awakened the power of the sixties and seventies of make love not war. My children sang this song. My Mother sang this song. I did not know anyone that did not know the song...

The true essence is the gathering of people (here for coke) but in harmony...living lives in harmony. One person passes it on to the next and then there are two. The two each pass it on and then there are four. Exponentially it spreads through a community with joy and and harmony lighting the way. No one is left in the dark. No one can be disconnected from the power... as it comes from one person to the next. No one will be skipped.

We are all members of one family...we all live here on earth and we must learn to unite in harmony.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"You shall also love the stranger, for you were strangers in the land of Egypt." Deuteronomy 10:19

Healing, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-10T07:30:00.000-06:00

Healing

We all become wounded warriors in life. Life happens and it is not always pretty and joyful emotionally or physically. Only the power of Christ can bring healing and perfection back to us. We cannot allow our wounds to define who we are.

Healing is a conscious process. We have to believe in our own wholeness and completeness with God. We must rid ourselves of negative thoughts that drain our energy. We have to learn to be acceptive of ourselves as God created us.

This song means much to my mom. She had mentioned it several times over the past month. She and I have performed it, but I was always backup and harmonizer not the main singer. My mom has a gift with her voice. I am more of the camp side singer with the girl scouts or with the church youth group. Not a performer.
This song is a Christian Folk Song by Marsha Stevens. I did not have the music only the memory and the words... so it may not be as she performed it. I have not played my guitar in almost a year, so sore fingers and via my laptop with limited video abilities....

On this special day in my mom's life, I want to sing this for her and let her know how much Terry and I love her. Healing is happening right now... Jesus said "Come to the water, stand by my side...I know you are thirsty, you won't be denied...I felt every tear drop when in darkness you cried, and I strove to remind you, That for those tears I died."

Words of my Heart, Laurie

No Worry... just Faith, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-09T07:30:00.000-06:00

No Worry... Faith

A Time for Everything
There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens: a time to be born and a time to die, a time to plant and a time to uproot, a time to kill and a time to heal, a time to tear down and a time to build, a time to weep and a time to laugh, a time to mourn and a time to dance, a time to scatter stones and a time to gather them, a time to embrace and a time to refrain from embracing, a time to search and a time to give up, a time to keep and a time to throw away, a time to tear and a time to mend, a time to be silent and a time to speak, a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.

Nowhere in here do you see a time for worry. We each have a purpose in life and some of us have not discovered it. The journey to finding it is not always easy and it begins with a first step. God will light the way. It is time.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

"You see that faith was active along with his works." James 2:22

Live with Joy, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-08T07:30:00.000-06:00

Live with Joy

Sometimes you simply have to write things down to accept them.
Seeing it written on paper makes everything seem more official. I think that is why my Dad always had us making lists.

Write it down...

I LIVE IN JOY.

You have the ability to do this. You do not have to wait for something or someone to change... YOU CHANGE. You live in joy. Choose to be joyful right now as you read this.

Now that you have written the words down... read it out loud. Read it again.

I live in Joy. Are you smiling yet?

Just speaking it out begins to lift your smile and your mood. Give the joy to others today. The more you give out, the more joy you will have inside of you.
Feel the joy of God, share the joy of God.

Choose to live in Joy.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"Be Glad in the Lord and Rejoice." Psalm 32:11

"I wanna piece"... Words of my heart from a Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-07T07:30:00.000-06:00

"I wanna piece..."

Seems like that is the norm now.. give me... I want some.
What we do not grasp is the more we stock up on the pieces the less peace we truly have.

When you see rain falling outside the window with the roll of thunder in the distance, you begin to realize there is more than just you and your world. There is a connection with Him. The rain cleans the air and saturates the ground; it provides water for animals and our lakes and for us. Each single drop of that rain has a purpose.

God's spirit is at work... balancing out nature, feeding the needs of our environment. It provides a sense of comfort and completion and that gentle rain will bring a peace to your heart.

Time to walk away from all of it and realign your thoughts to conversations with Him. Let go of all the pieces. That is the only way to His peace and a peace of soul and mind for you.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times in all ways. The Lord be with all of you." 2 Thessalonians 3:16

Taking the First Steps, Words of my heart, by a Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-06T07:30:00.000-06:00

Taking the First Steps

We were watching a documentary on Netflix called BUCK and it was about a horse trainer. The demonstration of how to lead a horse that is not wanting to budge was a good lesson in how to deal with others in your life. If you have been trying to train a horse and you firmly grab the lead rope and pull to get them to move that is definitely wrong. Buck encouraged grasping the rope and gently taking up slack NOT trying to move them. It has to be their idea.

Artist Debbie Lincoln

Seems true with people. We are jerked around all the time by others and we jerk others around. What comes from gentleness is trust and positive response. Gentleness will establish a trust and that trust will build confidence between the horse and the trainer. Works with people to. Once confidence is there, you can encourage steps past it into the unknown.

God encourages us in many ways to go forward. He does not jerk at us... He patiently waits for us 'to get it' and move forward. We are the worse in dwelling in the mire we are in and often afraid to go forward.

Be it a new job, a new painting, a new relationship, ... it is all the same. You can do it if you set your heart on it. God will provide everything you need as you take on new challenges in life. Claim this abundance.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

"God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance." 2 Corinthians 9:8

The Heart of it All, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-05T09:00:00.000-06:00

The Heart of it All

"We are committed to caring for individuals touched by life limiting illnesses, grief and loss. Our hope for our patients and families is that as we apply our training, experiences and compassion, we are able to relieve their physical, emotional and spiritual pain. Our patients and families have the assurance that they are being served by one of the oldest and most respected hospice programs in Northeast Texas." Cypress Basin Hospice

Last night we attended the annual charity hospice ball for the second year. Mark Scirto was the emcee again this year and he is quite a special person. Good food, good friends, good dancing, good auctions and a good cause.

The time we have between this life and the next I like to think of preparation to the day of continuation. Hospice walks with families through out this entire journey.

Many people do not realize Hospice serves more than the last few months or days before death. Hospice is available to families from early on. They set up weekly visits to monitor patients and as the decline sets in, Hospice ups their services to provide all the needed things to make the situation both livable and comfortable right to the end. No suffering is needed. Pain does not have to be part of this transition. Hospice meets the needs for the patient as well as the family.

Hospice has played a part in our lives often, with Terry's brother, his mom, his dad and now with my dad. I encourage you all to donate and give to your local hospice knowing you gift a peace to many families.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"For the director of music. Of David the servant of the LORD. He sang to the LORD the words of this song when the LORD delivered him from the hand of all his enemies and from the hand of Saul. He said: I love you, LORD, my strength. The LORD is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.” Psalm 18:1-2 NIV

Are you Read to Go? Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-04T07:30:00.000-06:00

Are you Ready to Go?

Time is passing faster each day, each month, each year. Sometimes it feels like life is unfolding faster than you can live it.

You have gifts and talents and life experiences that can help others. You can change lives for the better. You are meant to be right now as you are, but allow His gifts to unfold in you and create a life based in divine power. You are full of potential.

Your destiny is yours to choose and to create. Do you like the path you are on right now? Reach out to God for that "go power".

Words of my heart,
Laurie

"But I will sing of your strength, in the morning I will sing of your love; for you are my fortress, my refuge in times of trouble." Psalm 59:16 NIV

Sharing the Gifts, climbing OUT of the Box, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-03T07:30:00.000-06:00

Sharing the gifts...

On Monday night I attended a Girl Scout meeting. I had not been to one of those since I was Stacey's girl scout leader many years ago.

It was my honor to work with these incredible young scouts with a project and a sharing of my work and history. With me came paints, canvas, brushes and a story about a box.

We talked about doing things backwards.
We talked about closing ourselves into a box and how we could not see anything altho we could still hear things.
We talked about gifts from God.
We talked about donuts and donut holes. (Positive and negative space)

Main idea was to paint the canvas with lots of color...and while it was drying I told them about myself and my art. Then we came back to the semi dry canvas with color. We blocked out the table background and then blocked out the vase and area for flowers. It was successful because they all had fun. Pretty sure at least 75% of them 'got it'.

Enjoy the side show... and don't forget to share your gifts.

Words of my heart, Laurie

Realize you have to climb out of your box... you cannot possibly know what God has for you if you are stuck living in your box.

"But it is as scripture says: What no eye has seen and no ear has heard, what the mind of man cannot visualize; all that God has prepared for those who love him." 1 Corinthians 2:9

Changing the World One Heart at a Time, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-02-01T09:40:00.001-06:00

Changing the World One Heart at a Time

"Everyone thinks of changing the world, but no one think of changing himself."
Leo Tolstoy

Change must begin in the heart and blossom out in your being and then to your family and then to the world. The world cannot change with out our own change of heart.

Terry found this yesterday on Youtube and I want to share it. It should be called
"Only the Unloved Hate"
(You can click the first ad off.)

"Song: Window by The Album Leaf

One of the most inspirational speeches in recorded history was given by a silent comedian by the name of Charlie Chaplin. If you like what you see please share the video any way you can to pass the message on."
Abstract Art Samples by ScottDraves.com and ElectricSheep.org

Words of my heart, Laurie

"Listen, Israel: Yahweh our God is the one, the only Yahweh. You must love Yahweh your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength… Yahweh your God is the one you must fear, him alone
you must serve, his is the name by which you must swear.”

Deuteronomy 6:4-5, 13 New Jerusalem Bible

CHANGE, make a new Ending, Words of my Heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-31T07:45:00.000-06:00

Change

"Nobody can go back and start a new beginning, but anyone can start today and make a new ending." Maria Robinson

They reported on the news as we are ending this month that it was nicknamed the month of Junuary... instead of January. Very little snow in the USA and very little cold weather. It certainly reminds us of last summer and temperatures from 110-117 degrees for over 85 days. We cannot go back and start over this year...the month of January is gone... so with the climate changing so drastically, how do we start today to make this new ending? We have to change how we view things.

Climb up where you can see what God offers.

From climate to relationships, from jobs to classrooms... we can begin again today with a new attitude and a new view. Tonight I visit a local Girl Scout troop to do a program on being an artist. I will be teaching about climbing out of the box. That too is another way to start today and have a new ending.

EVERYTHING does not need to stay the same. Your habits, your lists, the way you control your day. Change it up and climb out of that box. View life in a new way as you begin the second month of this year. When you stay in your box, you cannot see the world around you. God has created so much for you to do and see and be... are you hiding in your box for a reason?

Words of my heart, Laurie

“You, Lord, are forgiving and good, abounding in love to all who call to you.” Psalm 86:5 NIV

Claiming God's Good Plans, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-30T07:30:00.000-06:00

Claiming God's Good Plans

After a week of travel we were so happy to be home in our own bed last night. For some reason my Dad's words are stuck in my head right now. He always encouraged us (the siblings) to believe in ourselves; to write down our goals; to cross them out as we achieved them.

Heck I remember at age 17 he gave me one of those pocket books about achieving the most you can from life. He was way before his times.

This was Lady L last year... she has on her bakers hat and is working diligently in her own little kitchen. This trip to her house she has a new kitchen... got it from Santa. She served me special tea made with watermelon and ice cream. Her imagination races with ideas and colors swim before her eyes when she does her painting or coloring. She is poised and ready to apply the talents God has given her to use in her life. It is time for her to grow and begin creating the life God has for her.

We all have had dreams in our lives. Dreams of the ideal job or things we wanted to do, like learn to play the guitar, or take cooking lessons, or art lessons. Pray on it now. What is your destiny? What are your gifts? Open your heart to God and see what is in store for you. Be ready to claim His plans for your life.

Words of my heart, Laurie

Sitting down, Jesus called the Twelve and said, “Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.”” Mark 9:35NIV

Happy Birth Day... words of my heart, by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-27T14:41:00.001-06:00

Having a Birthday? It's my Birth Day Too!

Our youngest son turns 31 today. I told him it was my Birth Day too. I was there giving birth on that day...so doesn't that qualify?

My Dad would say he was in his 32nd year already, but that truly makes me feel older and I feel old enough already.

We have watched him grow from a tow headed toddler into teen and then off to college. Now we are seven years after college graduation... and with the bumps and challenges along the way, he has emerged to be a fine man.

Each man in life has his own journey to make, his own tale to tell and his joys to share. The challenges in life make us stronger. We grow through learning sometimes painfully, trying to make things always be one direction, our direction. We find as we grow older we have to live and love and accept not only ourselves for who we are, but others as well.

Mother and Son

When he married this summer we celebrated again joyful that he found a soul mate in his sweet wife that he knew from church as a young teen.

We discover with age that we have facets of our lives we keep hidden and protected. We realize we are vulnerable. And if we are really blessed, we are listening and we realize God has full control over everything.

Accept this moment in this day and celebrate life. God is good.

Happy Birthday Son.

MOM

words of my heart, Laurie

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand.” Ephesians 6:12-13 NIV

What Defines You? Words of my Heart, By a Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-26T08:27:00.001-06:00

What Defines You

With much reflection on the life of someone I loved dearly, I sat last night with my husband and two of my children and shared what was the essence of our loved one to each of us. Although his physical body no longer walks this earth, his spirit now seems to surround us and lift us in joy. His completeness with the Father is a celebration as is his healing to be whole again.

He was a man of integrity and directness. He was a man that held each of us to high expectations and loved us deeply. He did not put up with anything he thought was out of line and often put fear into our hearts, but we still knew he loved us. He had hopes and plans for our lives. We did not always do what he expected, nor did we do it his way. We took the tools he gave us and we made our way the best we could. Every mistake made us stronger. Every new challenge encouraged our growth. He mentored us in life by setting the standards with strong core values and he led by example.

He was a man rooted in Christ. He derived his identity from Christ and lived his life in Christ.

Today we seem to be defined by the media, by what they are pushing and how we want to be seen by others. We seek things that are wants and not needs. We are enticed by the world and we often choose to live seeking self gratification.

We have choices this new day to live as we did yesterday, or to begin again in His light and put down roots in Christ.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"He was in the world, and the world was made through Him, and the world did not know Him. He came to His own, and those who were His own did not receive Him. But as many as received Him, to them He gave the right to become children of God, even to those who believe in His name, who were born, not of blood nor of the will of the flesh nor of the will of man, but of God.

And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we saw His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth. John testified about Him and cried out, saying, "This was He of whom I said, 'He who comes after me has a higher rank than I, for He existed before me.' " For of His fullness we have all received, and grace upon grace. For the Law was given through Moses ; grace and truth were realized through Jesus Christ. No one has seen God at any time ; the only begotten God who is in the bosom of the Father, He has explained Him."

The Finish or the Start, Words of my Heart, a Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-25T08:57:00.001-06:00

The Finish or the Start?

I was speaking again to our Pastor this week following the death of someone very close and dear to my family. Writing often of God's call to us, Jack gave more insight in his reflections yesterday. When death comes, it marks but the end of our 'calling' here on earth. While a new journey begins with death, it is not ours to judge others on how they lived their life, but it is ours to rejoice in the life they did share with all of us.

Words spoken, embraces exchanged, subjects debated, lives intertwined, tears shared, birth and death celebrated, all through the direction of the Father and His plans for each of our lives.

I am going to be spending time with family for the next few days and will blog when I have time.

You have time now to stop and reflect on what you are doing in your life to serve Him and serve others. What reflection do you see of your life when you look in the mirror?

Words of my heart, Laurie

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” Philippians 4:8 NIV

Grace of Togetherness, Words of my Heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-24T07:30:00.000-06:00

Grace of Togetherness

With young children they need constant watching. They are vulnerable to so many harmful things around them that having a 'visual' on them is a necessity to ensure their safety.

Many moms with young ones are near crazy by the end of the day trying to keep up with the busyness of their children.

God keeps the same watchful eye through the Spirit placed within us. As adults our lives are busy. Yet no matter what we are never alone. His spirit abides with us at all times, the watchful parent keeping a visual over us.

Knowing God is a partner in life with us each day, makes that day livable. We are often pulled into rifts and problems; dealing with them depends on our trust in Him that we stay current in the moment with our eyes focused only on Him.

Every decision, every choice, every relationship brings a gift or opportunity. With God beside you, you will have a day filled with His strength and light gracing your every step.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

"Grace is poured upon your lips; therefore God has blessed you forever." Psalm45:2

Be Still, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-23T07:30:00.000-06:00

Be Still

Yesterday in church Pastor Jack had us starting out singing an old favorite...
How Great Thou Art. "O Lord my God, when I in awesome wonder, Consider all the World thy hand hath made."

He is all around us. In the quiet of a sunset, or the gentle rain, or in the early morning dew, our God is our constant.

Be still where ever you are as you read this and know His hand made and provided all around you.

"I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder, Thy Power throughout the universe displayed."

Jack spoke about God calling to us and all the many excuses we come up with not to listen or follow His direction.

If we are burdened by life and it's circumstances, it is hard to be still and listen to Him. We are busy trying to repair things and get back our balance. That is really the time to be still. It is time to affirm His presence in us and in our world.

It is easy to view the sunset above and see God's hand, or the beautiful mountains in eastern Oklahoma in the next picture, but can you see Him here in this town ravaged by a tornado?

Be Still.

He is here as well.

When the mind and heart are still you become an open conduit for God to speak to you. Your thoughts no longer are centered on what is about you in the external concerns, but you are comforted by the pure presence of God. He will lead you out of the turmoil. He has something more for you to do this day... can you hear His message? Can you be a sanctuary for others bringing a calm to their day and the light to their darkness?

Words of my heart, Laurie

"Then sings my soul, my Saviour God to Thee, How great Thou art."

"Be still and know that I am God." Psalm 46:10

Unanswered Prayers, The Elephant in the Room, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-22T07:30:00.000-06:00

Unanswered Prayers, the Elephant in the Room?

It happens all the time. Elephants in the room. We step all around them, worry about them and they do not budge.

Terry's Aunt Jo used to keep a list of all the things she was praying about. She had a spiral notebook she carried around. Neatly she would write out the date of the first day she was praying about something. If the prayer was answered... on the far right side there was a date of the answered prayer.

This really works in the sense you SEE how many prayers are answered and very few are unanswered prayers. Everything is in God's time, not ours.

Right now there is something you are fretting over or worried about. Something that might even shake the foundation of your life...or so you are thinking. You begin praying about it. Often it is easy to offer a barter or trade. IF you do this, I will do this.... count on an unanswered prayer my friend as God does not take lightly to bartering.

When you pray you often have a waiting time for things to begin to happen. Rarely is anything overnight. Even if there is not evidence of things happening, God is working on it all. It is time to go about your day and be strong in your faith and trust God. Affirm your love and faith in Him and stop fretting about the things that seems to be the elephant in the room. In quiet moments the Presence of God is evident and the elephant begins to fade from sight. Your eyes on are Him now, you cannot see that elephant any more. Now you are ready to receive.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

"And Mary said, "My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior." Luke 1:46-47

Kinesthetically Speaking Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-21T07:30:00.000-06:00

Kinesthetically Speaking

Wikipedia Kinesthetic learning is a learning style in which learning takes place by the student actually carrying out a physical activity, rather than listening to a lecture or merely watching a demonstration. It is also referred to as tactile learning. People with a kinesthetic learning style are also commonly known as do-ers.

I come from a teaching background and this word has been apart of me a long time. Every student has a different learning style. While they may all overlap, they are still distinctive to them. As Terry always says... it depends on what motivates them. Every one of us is motivated differently.

I have always been one of 'THOSE' people that can walk into a room and immediately feel the atmosphere or 'mood' of the room down to individual people. One glance into their eyes or watching their hand motions tells me volumes. I am often swayed by the emotions as they seem to wash through me.

It comes from being a do-er... everything is tactile or hands on. I watch tutorials for the new CFAI website, but I do not 'own' the material until I do it myself. I cannot in the same sense understand people unless my emotions can associate and feel their joy or pain.

We are all connected by the threads of the Spirit that weaves us together as children of the Father. "We are one in the Spirit, we are one in the Lord." We have to have that same sense of connection of kinesthetically being hands on with God. That brings the harmony to our lives and to the lives of those around us. While we all have outer differences as well as habitual differences, our hearts beat the same; our feelings get hurt just the same; we get too proud just the same; we love just the same and we hold grudges just the same. Yet we are still bound by that same beating of the heart, the same need of our humanly condition to be loved by someone during our life and the need to feel needed. We are truly one in the Spirit with God and this Spirit transcends any differences we come up with.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"You are standing firm in one spirit, striving side by side with one mind" Philippians 1:27

Relationships, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-20T07:30:00.000-06:00

Relationships

Terry is always leery when I turn off his television at night and want to talk. Immediately he feels he has done something wrong. How did we get here? Does not seem like a healthy reaction, especially when I am not frowning. I have known him for 48 years of my life. I know him pretty well.

How can you improve your current relationship? I know as we talked last night I literally prayed before responding to some touchy things we were discussing.

I stayed quiet and sought oneness with the Father before replying. I did not want to speak out of emotions and not from my heart. Our lives have been up side down since he retired in April 2010. We need to get back on the same page and I was ready to talk about it. Praying as we spoke kept me from over reacting to some of his responses.

The impact of this spiritual security brought about a change in him as we talked and I could visible see him sigh and relax. He was still hesitant speaking of painful things but it was something that had to be done.

It is so easy to lose sight of God in our relationship. Staying aligned with Him helps each of us stay aligned in our relationships with others. Knowing God is with you provides a sense of security and joy. Divine love nurtures all of us. Divine love will bless every relationship in your life.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"I want their hearts to be encouraged and united in love." Colossians 2:2

Healing Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-19T07:30:00.000-06:00

Healing

Injuries of the flesh take time to heal. When our youngest son was in a near fatal car accident, it took over a year to get him back on course....and even then there was fall out from the accident that affected his life for the next ten years.

Injuries of that magnitude leave a vulnerable place in our lives. All health challenges create that same vulnerability.

Often we cannot be healed in this lifetime and we must have faith in God to walk through our lives beside us with these illnesses or injuries. Through our faith and His abiding strength we can make the best of each day.

Believe you are perfect just as you are at this moment in time. True healing begins from the inside out and that would be from your heart.

New growth comes from within. Allow your faith to sprout forth and share the bloom with your family and friends.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

"Jesus turned, and seeing her he said, "Take heart, daughter; your faith has made you well." and instantly the woman was made well. " Matthew 9:22

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

2012-01-18T07:30:00.000-06:00

The Foundation

When times are rough and you feel pretty beat down, you hold on for dear life. You pray hard that you are rooted strong enough to withstand the blow.

What keeps your rooted? What is your foundation? If you lost everything you had right now... materialistically, would you survive? If you lost your family right now, would you survive?

When winds are calm it is easy to pray and feel secure in your faith. When the wind picks up, your foundation in life will be tested.

Putting God's truth into your day and sharing it will strengthen your foundation. God is with you no matter what storm hits. You are protected. It does not mean you cannot lose all around you...but it does mean your faith will keep you strong to endure what the storm takes from your life.

Affirm His presence daily. You are never alone.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"That one is like a man building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when a flood arose, the river burst against that house but could not shake it , because it had been well built." Luke 6:48

My Prayer for Gentleness, Words of my Heart by a Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-17T07:30:00.000-06:00

My Prayer this week for Gentleness

For some reason for the second time this week I have been stirred in my morning petitions and prayers to the single word of gentleness.

Reflecting on the word brought to mind when Jesus met the woman of Samaria and asked her about her husband...and she immediately changed the subject to worship. Jesus did not press her on the true issue of her past, but allowed her to sway the conversation to her comfort zone and he reached out to answer that of what she asked him.

Gentle people will always be cautious of the feelings of others and not probe into unspoken areas. A gentle person seeks to offer comfort and protect others from being "exposed" and condemned. We seem to be forthright society now days in it to always grab what is best for ME and we often lose sight of need to be gentle in our heart and actions.

Words of my Heart,
Laurie

"Learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart." Matthew 11:29

Thoughts from the Road Trip on Sunday by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-16T07:30:00.000-06:00

Thoughts from the Road

We made a short/long trip to see the kids yesterday...there and back. Five hours total driving time. One of those love hate things of being on the road, but knowing it is rare for the family to gather in one place.

It helped that our son-on-law Larry was whipping up some healthy chicken chili. It was the thought that kept us coming... that and playing with Lady L.

As we left Mount Vernon, Terry had on a variety of political talk shows. That alone is a retreat into prayers or other thoughts for me. Everything gets hashed and bashed on the TV and I truly did not want to hear it for two and 1/2 hours in the car yesterday morning. But I did.

The saving part was as we hit the edge of Dallas crossing Lake Ray Hubbard the George Bush Turnpike was open. Taking that cuts off about 30 minutes in driving time. THAT was a nice surprise.

We enjoyed our visit, good food, good conversation, many hugs, and not near enough time as we headed home by four...but with this return trip we had the Giants/Packer Game. It lasted the entire trip home. Those Giants really cleaned up.

How do men do this? Trying to follow that auction type gibberish almost drove me crazy. AND he could drive at the same time and change stations on his steering wheel. Truly men must learn these things from an early age. There is not a radio or tv that they cannot figure out and work without a look or a blink.

God is truly good and patient. He must feel very much the same way about us and our constant gibberish every day. We stay motivating in the direction we are heading. The few times we turn our attention to Him... we still have not slowed down to breath and prepare for conversation. I think we have too many computers, too much TV and too much noise in our lives. We have TOO TOO much. We can control and conquer all the electronics but we cannot let go and live our lives with joy. Maybe it is time for a challenge of less when it comes to electronics...of all sorts. Time to be set free.

Words of my heart, Laurie

" To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, "If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."" John 8:31-32

What is Indwelling within You, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-15T07:30:00.000-06:00

Indwelling

If someone were ask to describe you with one word what would it be? What is indwelling in your so strongly that it is something identified with you?

HINT: It is never what you think it is, believe me. When we look in the mirror we see something totally different than everyone else sees. We see what we want to see. So what do others see?

When we are born we arrive totally dependent on others for our existence. So from earliest moments we relate to 'others' before we learn to become aware of ourselves. If we were blessed with a loving family, we were kissed and nurtured and raised in God's light. We felt significant and loved and we grew up knowing of the Father's hand in our daily life.

Now what about everyone else?

They missed the nurturing. They might have missed God. They grew up feeling rejection, hurt and hungered deeply for attention they never received.

We are each a by-product of our environment from birth forward. We have the power to change. We can let go of that which no longer serves us. At any time we can seek God's light and presence in our lives. We can become a by-product of His indwelling grace and share His word and truth with others.

So what is indwelling with you? What is the one word people would use to describe you?

Words of the heart,
Laurie

"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:21

The Balancing Act, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-14T07:30:00.000-06:00

The Balancing Act

I know I drive my husband crazy when we hang things in the house. Finding that same balance in life is almost as crazy.

With TP working for American for 23 years you become aware of the need for balance and strick attention to detail.

How do we get there in our personal lives? We are faced with the magnitude of our 'society' our 'jobs' and our 'families'. Further down on the list is church and God. I am learning now it does not work that way. There is no balance, only frustration and anger. God has to be first. God has to be first.

We must learn to align our human nature with our divine nature and bring spirituality into everyday life. This new awareness will take practice to make it a habit and then it eventually becomes a natural part of our lives. With this new found balance, we set examples for others in our lives to witness our strength with the Lord within us.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

"We have this hope, a sure and steadfast anchor of the soul." Hebrews 6:19

Settling In, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-13T07:30:00.000-06:00

Settling In.

Why is it so hard for us to let go and settle in somewhere?

Comfort is the couch or easy chair with a blanket to tuck around you in this cold weather. The next comfort is the heated mattress pad our daughter bought us a few years ago. Makes going to bed PURE comfort.

What is comfort? Comfort speaks to the ease of the Spirit, to enjoy resting in the arms of God, feeling His warm surrounding you; feeling His peace fill you.

Feel Him in silent moments. Feel Him in the midst of chaos. He is there surrounding you through all times...not just those snuggly lets get close times. Learn to release your fears and drop all those rocks you carry around.

Reharge by His closeness. Be renewed through His Spirit and be empowered by Him through His grace.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

"Then they were glad because they had quiet, and he brought them to their desired haven." Psalm 107:30

Completing the Circle, Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-12T07:30:00.000-06:00

Completing the Circle

Did you ever think about currents and prayers? Terry is always talking about circuitry and currents. With the energy we create from praying, we send out currents to all those in our lives.

We have our friends and family that we pray for daily. This is a well established current that has been tried and tried and relied on for over 45 years.

We have seen each other through the good times and the bad times for almost half a century.

I think the ties between the women are the strongest almost like we are the pray warriors and our connect is deep as sisters in our faith.

Then there are new friends that God brings into our lives. We add them to our prayers and immediately the circuitry expands as they begin praying for us as well. Every time one heart is lifted in prayer, all hearts are lifted and all lives are blessed.

We must wait upon the Lord.

Words from my heart, Laurie

"And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself."
John 12:32

Staying in Line, Words from my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-11T07:30:00.000-06:00

Staying in Line.

Thoughts of childhood and all those lines we stood in. Minutes that seemed like hours.

Times you broke out of line only to be corrected and times your mind wandered and you forgot to follow the line... you were staring off into space.

OR there was a really neat rock almost five feet away and you desperately want to make a dash for that rock... while no one is looking. No one like the adult in charge.

Remember those lines? Hands to your side. Do not touch anyone. Walk in a straight line.

How about these lines? These children have no food.. they are staying in line..hoping and lifting up there hands for nourishment. They are starving. They will not budge from this line. If they did they would miss what is being offered to them.

Are you starving for joy in your life?
Are you in need of a plateau to rest?
Is the climb to hard right now?

God does not demand a line...but staying in His light makes a huge difference. When you turn away from His light and make a dash for that special 'rock' or thing that is tempting you... or push the limit on the direction you want to go totally opposite of where He is leading you...the result will be less than satisfying. We are often tempted to put more faith in what we perceive around us than we do in what He offers from His kingdom. His light will fill you with the power to make this journey. His love and grace will support you in every need, providing exactly what you need.

Words from my heart,
Laurie

"When a land rebels it has many rulers; but with an intelligent ruler there is lasting order." Proverbs 28:2

Learning to Forgive Words of my Heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-10T07:00:00.000-06:00

Learning to Forgive

“Life is an adventure in forgiveness.” Norman Cousins (1912 - 1990)

One of the joys of a new year is the thought of forgiving and letting go of things that have piled up over the year. This process can open up your heart to find more love surrounding you. When we allow anger and issues to compile over time, they squeeze shut our hearts and we become cold inside.

Forgiving rarely means forgetting. We are too human for that. Does God forgive and forget? It is reasonable to feel hurt and angry over memories because they fester over time. Without forgiving they will never heal. If you can forgive, the wounds will eventually heal and only a scar will remain. Over time even that scar will fade.

When you are ready to forgive, you are ready to ACCEPT the incidence. Open your heart to love and your world will change. Judgements you carry around year to year will only continue to pull you down. Isn't it time to let them go?

With God you have the power to release the weight of all these things you have not forgiven. God's love is stronger than anything you have stored up over the years. Another person's actions should not control you this long. Let it go. Open your heart to love and the light God has to offer.

Words of my heart,

Laurie

"Whenever you stand praying, forgive, if you have anything against anyone; so that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses." Mark 11:25

Grumpy Day? Words of my heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-09T07:30:00.000-06:00

A Grumpy Day? I don't think so.

Well yesterday was overcast and dark...with thick fog and altho the day started out good, by early afternoon I was tired and ready to nap. Terry was in a really grumpy mood as he has an injured back.

Despite the mood and the back, we took down the Christmas tree and dismantled the decorations on the fireplace mantel and put away the stockings. That alone was a mood setter for sure. Then came the realization that there are always choices to make new things happen in our lives... my life is under God's authority, not the dark clouds outside.

Choosing peace and prayer I retreated to my studio to work on a painting. With that peace came a freshness to my work and the light seemed brighter despite the thick fog. The power of the indwelling spirit is strong if we open our hearts to Him.

Stacey sent this adorable picture of our Grand-dogs sleeping side by side. They have two kennels but they prefer to nap touching closely. That warmed me more with a wide smile.

Choose Peace by faith. Know you have support from Him and your earthly family and friends. The essence of life is God within. Let this year begin with the amazing power of a new start in your life.

Words of my heart,

Laurie

"Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying"Oh that you would bless me and enlarge my border..." and God graned what he asked. 1 Chronicles 4:10

Co-creator? Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-08T07:30:00.000-06:00

Co-creator?

Thoughts of God's touch creating so much beauty in our world, puts me in awe of His artistry. As an artist, I feel so much responsibility to use my gift wisely and to allow Him to work through me as I am only a poor imitator of His dimensionally work.

Ladies at my summer workshop.

Painting in my own style, expressing what is important to me using line, color, palette knife and movement, is primary to the success of the work. Success that He was apart of the making. I can do nothing with out Him.

Encouraging other artists to paint from the inside out is often hard. 'Copying' a photo or image from the internet is hard to pass up at times, and I cannot say I have never done it because in the early years of the internet it seemed easy to use it as reference. Not fully copying it, but copying it where I should not have done it. You begin to realize it is not your work. It is not His work. It was something co-created by Him and another artist or photographer. For me to be a co-creator with Him, it is something that is inspired by my work, my photographs, or if I have a photograph for a commission... it is with permission to be a co-creator. Paintings completed without Him may be technically correct but they are not filled with any light or energy.

Feel prosperous in this new year and joyful that He is there with you as you do what your direction is in life. Do it with His spirit there fulltime. It is God-power, or God-filled energy. Abundance is there for the asking, and He will provide what we each need in life.

Words of my Heart,
Laurie

"For to those who have, more will be given, and they will have an abundance." Matthew 13:12

Perfect Order, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Pace

2012-01-07T07:30:00.000-06:00

Perfect Order?

Not sure it exists in my world, but it is suppose to be there. God promises His perfect order.

As the days and weeks unfold things never go the way we think they should go. We all struggle with God's way as it happens, trying desperately to make it 'right' the way we think it should be.

One of my favorite chores is folding wash. I have so much control. I am very particular about things being folded in the proper manner to fit in the drawer neatly. God has His particular way too and we fight Him all the time. He is unfolding in our lives the path He has chosen for us. It is never neatly packaged because we are human and always tinkering with our own lives and those in our family.

If we would stop and look around in the world, we would remember that His plan is perfect. Examples are the way it all works from caterpillars to butterflies and more. He has a process for everything including us.

Patience is the prayer for the day, that we can be patient with this day, this week, this time in our lives to allow Him the time to work.

Words of my Heart,
Laurie

"Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming." 1 Peter 1:13 NIV

Deep Do-Do, Words of my Heart, by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-06T08:00:00.000-06:00

Deep Do-Do

I KNOW you all have heard that phrase before. We get there in life all the time. Either we produce the mess we are knee deep in, or we wade in often not realizing it.

Well, I laughed until I cried yesterday when Stacey sent this image of Lady L. If you recall they have two new puppies they rescued that are about 4 months old. They are little miniature Schnauzers, but I really believe one is really part black lab. So the dogs love playing in the back yard. This is Lady L's personal territory with her new "Park".

She walked in the house late yesterday with dog poop all over her shoes, socks and lower legs. Her mom could not even imagine HOW she got into this much puppy poop. The backyard is sniped every afternoon and these are only two little dogs... how did she manage to get covered in so much dog poop?

So this morning after the big clean up yesterday... Lauren solved the issue herself by putting on her bright new pink rain boots. She was determined not to have poopy shoes this morning when she went out to play.

So my friends, remember to pull on those rain boots when you are knee deep in problems. God has the perfect pair ready for you... in your favorite color. Like reading in the bible about arming yourself... see below.

Words of the heart,
Laurie

"Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." Ephesians 6:14-16

Our Highest Good, Our Inheritance, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist, Laurie Pace

2012-01-05T07:00:00.000-06:00

Our Highest Good... Our Inheritance

When we are born we have already begun 'inheriting' things...such as our DNA from our parents. Red hair, green eyes, long legs and spunky attitudes. By age two we continue to inherit things, like mannerisms and toys handed down from older siblings. Things continue to pile up as we inherit more through the years. These things are not for our highest good.

As hard as we look ... we never truly see everything we 'inherit' or recognize if it is truly 'good' for us.

As a child of God I never doubt His kingdom is my inheritance. It is who I am. It is who I became as my parents set the example in our lives. At times I am definitely not worthy of this great gift. I fail and sin by thought, word and deed. It is only through God's grace that I find my way back to this truth. Home is not just where I lived and grew here on earth, home is where He is and where I am bound. His love keeps me safe and leads me there.

In this New Year I challenge you to stay on the path to His higher good. Allow His love to shine in your life, your words and your actions. He will show you the way if you are waiting and watching and listening. When you falter, He will be there for you guiding you with the light.

Words of my Heart,

Laurie

"I commend you to God and to the message of his grace." Acts 20:32

Healing Thoughts for the Year, Words of my Heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-04T07:00:00.000-06:00

Healing Thoughts for the Year

The well being of our bodies can be changed at any given moment in our lives. We are often challenged by disease that appears unexpectedly. Our bodies have a marvelous ability to rebound back and fight off and restore itself against most attacks. Everything in us is alive and good health is a state we all seek.

It is at times that 'bad health' creeps in that we must keep our thoughts on life and healing and affirming His hand in our lives.

If you know someone that is suffering right now from a disease they cannot fight and 'win' on this side of life, time to prayer for healing to rise up and heal them with the life ever after. Pray for each other. Times are hard and often people do not share where they are in life. Affirm with God all things are possible in His time and His way.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“For the grace of God has appeared that offers salvation to all people. It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright and godly lives in this present age,” Titus 2:11-12 NIV

Oh What a Day to Whiz in the Park, Words of my Heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-03T07:30:00.000-06:00

Oh What A Day

I truly debated on my feelings last night. I was in my studio cleaning up and a group of children and some parents arrived at the pond behind our house. Part of the pond is our property, part is with the lot across the pond, which belongs to our Home Owners Association.

This is a gorgeous neighborhood of high end homes in the millions on this lake. Ours is quite a bit simpler as we are next to the lake but not on it. It is also a gated community. I love watching children fishing in the pond with parents as it warms my heart to see time spent with young ones...but late yesterday caught me totally by surprise as one of the men in the group basically unzipped and whizzed away right in public. A long whiz.

You seen pictures of where we live.. it is beautiful and very natural... but that was beyond my thoughts.

I decided next time I will shoot pictures and share them with the Home Owners Association. Perhaps they want a port-a potty in our neighborhood area. (I know not.)

I know growing up my parents demanded manners from us. There are certain rules accepted in our lifestyle that to me are pretty basic. This violated everything I have been taught. My anger grew and I walked away... bringing Paddy inside and settling back to work on my computer. I knew I had to recenter and not think about it. Terry suggested having homemade cookies ready to share with them and try to approach it from a different angle. Tomorrow we will walk around and clean up all the trash they left behind.

Think about others when you do things today. Your actions speak loudly.

Hummm...maybe a sign...No whizzing on this property? I can only imagine how God feels about many of the things we do that totally bring His jaw dropping.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” Psalm 90:12 NIV

Words of Hope, Happy New Year from Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-02T07:00:00.000-06:00

Words of Hope

Well I certainly did not spend my day improving anything yesterday... or even with my darling husband. It was another day with CFAI.co.

Today I am going to pace myself to only 6 working hours as yesterday was 13 hours working on the site. Those are my words of hope at least!

Praying you had a safe New Years and look forward to 2012.

We didn't dance or party like we use to... but we enjoyed the change in the year and feel like most people do that it a new start for many things in our lives.

Choose for it to be a closer time with the Father.

I am heading that way to my bible right now and will start my day in Psalms.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

The Joy of New, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2012-01-01T07:30:00.000-06:00

The Joy of New...

A new year. A first for me in years that I do not have that huge list of things to do and change. A first year that weight loss was not primary on the top of the list. A first year that I did not write out a long list of things to add or change in my life.

WHY?
Because this past year I have gained some insight in dropping much of the worry. I have kept 16 pounds off for full year and I am ready to drop five more. I am getting better at it. I still fail. :^( But I get back on my knees and realign myself with God. My prayer for you my friends is to find peace and happiness in this moment. God's plan is in place.

I had a huge joy at the end of the year last night. We arrived home around nine from eating out with Paul and Victoria for an early night out. The mail box at the street was stuffed with a box I could not extract. Terry had to get out of the car and manhandle the mail box to release it's contents. We backed up the drive into the garage and whisk everything into the house. As I opened the package my breath drew out and the tears began to fall.

I am not a huge collector of things any more but one of my dearest collections was started by a good friend, sister of my heart, four years ago when she started sending me older Hummel pieces. I have ALWAYS loved them but never indulged in them. (My ancestors are from Germany. My grandmother was the last to come over and my mom was the first generation born here in the states. I am second generation.) These beautiful pieces have been joyful sightings through out my life, so when my friend started my collection I was in love. Tonight in my mailbox was a box containing the one almost in the center of the picture...slightly to the right. I cried for ten minutes totally amazed by how this new little piece caught my heart a glow. These are in a glass case in the den where I see them all the time. I am reminded of her not just with these little ones, but with so much in our home. Oh yes, this is all 'stuff' but we have parred down in our life to those things that are nearest and dearest to us in making our life simpler. I posted once earlier in my blogs of my 'sisters' that sits by my kitchen window from another dear friend... and two paintings by another dear art friend (Linda McCoy) that are on the wall in my breakfast room... along with pieces from Diane Whitehead, Toni Grote and a few others. God's blessings in love surround me not just in nature outside my window but in some tokens and treasures shared by my earthly friends.

Happy New Year. May you find your treasures in this moment right where you are.
Laurie

“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” 2 Corinthians 5:17 NIV

FInding the Positive Words of my heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-31T07:00:00.000-06:00

Finding the Positive

Still entering new members on CFAI.co. Am feeling pretty drained and we have about 75 more members to go to add today. Yesterday Terry kidnapped me for two hours and we went out to eat at Pete's in Mt Pleasant. We had pizza. We rarely eat such things...but we did. I ate one whole piece and truly loved it. Pete's rocks. Visit them on facebook.

At Pete's the band playing tonight was setting up and practicing for New Years Eve. We were there at four in the afternoon...so it was the band and Terry and I with salad and home made pizza. The ride home was even better...gorgeous colors reflecting more fall than winter and sixty degree weather. Finding the positive was really easy after eight hours on the computer from early morning.

I am blogging on my laptop. Another feat as everything on the Big Mac is signed into CFAI.co in every direction. Too messy to sign into google from one account to the other, easier to use the laptop. Less at my finger tips.

We did the drawing yesterday... and their were close to fifty entries for this little painting. My mom did the pull out of the name for this one and it is a fellow Texas many miles from me. C. Kelley is one of my collectors so I was thrilled to see this special little painting go where it will be loved.

I promise to send it out next week. I hope to be back blogging on my big mac too early next week.

Meanwhile... my best wishes of God's blessings in the New Year. Stay safe and count your blessings.... one by one.

Words of my Heart.
Laurie

““I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”” John 16:33 NIV

Determined, Stubborn or Stupid? Words of my heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-30T07:00:00.000-06:00

Determined, Stubborn or Stupid?

The past two days Diane Whitehead, Debbie Lincoln and I have been adding members into the new www.cfai.co site. We are moving Contemporary Fine Art International to its awesome new site designed by Nick Hempsey, www.studio412design.com . Nick is still working night and day on this site fine tuning it to be the professional site we ask for. (BTW, the man is incredible if you need a new website.)

Again Determined, Stubborn or Stupid?

Finding the Right Footing

We have over 500 juried in members on www.cfai.co being added slowly from the www.contemporaryfineartinternational.com site.
It is a professional site with professional artists.

Finding the right footing as you design a site this size when our five member board all had ideas was a bit easier than we thought, but as Nick was hired, he gave us a reality check. We thought we were firmly in place with what we wanted.

We thought the site could be built in six weeks. Yeah, if you do computers and websites you are laughing.

Here we are four months into it and we are just now loading our members...our PATIENT members. They have stuck with us knowing the vision is a good one. Art does tell the story. Yes artists are determined, stubborn and sometimes stupid... usually we work and work and seek the inner composition and possibilities in things that normal people do not even notice. So I guess it does not do any good for an artist to be firmly planted in something...other than God. He is my life support. I could not make the day with out Him.

Funny thing was something I googled on the Internet implied that stubbornness was linked with resisting change. From some views I might agree, but for an artist I cannot. They are usually stubborn to a fault while creating...but they are expecting and wanting change. Steady with change.. rolling with the painting as it develops, but stubborn not to give up or stop. I have not overworked anything in years. I have learned where to stop...but I always continue to explore and find balance in my work.

Is that what the Father does? We have no idea from day to day where we travel or go. As we climb we always believe we are on firm footing.... and we tend to fall and waver... but you know what... HE IS THERE! Climb with confidence. Stay focused on Him and He will guide your path and light the way.

Stop by www.cfai.co over the next few weeks on and off as all the fabulous artists put their best works that are available up for you to see and hopefully buy.

Words from my heart and very very tired fingers.... (and scrambled brain) I love you Debbie and Diane. We can do this!

Laurie

“[Jesus Comforts His Disciples] “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in me. My Father’s house has many rooms; if that were not so, would I have told you that I am going there to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back and take you to be with me that you also may be where I am.” John 14:1-3 NIV

Simplity in Soup and Salad Words from my heart, A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-28T07:00:00.000-06:00

Simplicity in Soup and Salad

Well I got on the scale. I was really scared after the food we inhaled over the holidays. I did not eat that much more, but I tasted more sweet things that I have had in the past year. I need to wean back off the sweets.

Terry asked me to go out for specialty pizza and I jumped on the scale and jumped off and said, Not until I am back down the three pounds I had obviously gained.

Soup and Salad. Keep it simple sweetie.

Oh how I wish I could keep my life that simple right now. Tax time to close out accounts and gather receipts.

The gathering word crops up again. We seem to be good at gathering STUFF. We are good at gathering belongings. We are good at gathering too much food at the table. We are good at gathering to much responsibility. We are good at gathering problems. We are good at gathering in general.

Time to FORGET all of that gathering. Gather in prayer with the Lord. Gather in prayer with your friends. Gathering in circles of love to pray for others. Gather in work that serves others, not serving yourself. How hard is it to put self last? Last from belongings. Last from tv. Last from food. Last from more responsibilities. Last from self?

Put Him first and NOTHING else has to be...just wait upon the Lord. He will provide direction. He will provide for your needs. Keep your life simple... and He will provide simple abundance.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“Of David. Praise the LORD, my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the LORD, my soul, and forget not all his benefits—” Psalm 103:1-2 NIV

Blowing out the Candles does not Extinquish the Light, Words of my heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-27T07:00:00.000-06:00

Blowing out the Candles Does not Extinguish the Light.

Christmas Day after the advent wreath burning and the reading of scriptures and the singing of Christmas hymns, Lady L was ready to blow out the candles.

She was so excited this year to celebrate advent and Jesus' birthday. She will be reminded through out the year by the lighting of candles during prayer time of this advent wreath and the 'light' that burns for all of us...HIS LIGHT.

Words of the heart,
Laurie

“Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: “Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you may now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all nations: a light for revelation to the Gentiles, and the glory of your people Israel.”” Luke 2:28-32 NIV

Sharing the Light, Words of my heart, by a Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

Sharing the Light of Christmas

A sharing of light and love from our hearts to yours on this Beautiful Week of Christmas.

May you keep this beauty alive in your heart, soul and mind.

Words from my Heart,
Laurie

“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 NIV

Christmas Joy and God's Blessings on You and Your Family, Words from my heart, by A Texas Artist, Laurie Pace

2011-12-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

Christmas Joy and Gods Blessings on you and your family.

Our Advent Wreath 5 x 7 inches Oil on Canvas

I am taking a small break from blogging today and tomorrow... meanwhile here is a small painting I did this week while traveling. It is from our advent wreath and it is a give away painting on my art blog. Just email me HERE and say
you are wanting this small Advent Wreath painting and I will put your name in the drawing. Winner will be announced in a few days.

Spend this day in Gathering close at heart the Love of God for mankind in bringing to us His only Son, who gave His life for us and for our sins.

This video is from 2009 Christmas and is the reading of the Christmas Story from Luke... Old house, old studio but it is from my heart to yours. Next year I will get back in the saddle (yeah pardon that pun too...) and I will be original and ready!

Words from my heart,
Laurie

Excited Angels, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

Excited Angels Around Us.

At this time of year you can often just look around and visible see those little Angels. These two caught my eye and I took a series of images as their faces changed with the cold wind blowing them about on the float they were in for the Mount Vernon Christmas Parade.

Can you even begin to imagine how the real Angels were twittering about in joyful love and expectation waiting as Mary and Joseph rode into Bethlehem?

They knew what was ahead and coming. They were at God's side and waited as He laid it out before them. Their excitement could hardly be hidden or contained... GLORY TO GOD IN THE HIGHEST.

Compare it to the little ones in your life and their expectation and excitement of Santa Claus arriving.

Gee what would it take for them to feel that same level of joyful anticipation over the spiritual celebration of Christmas?

Words of my heart, Laurie

"While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no guest room available for them.
And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An 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 that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”
Luke 2: 6-14

Hurry, Hurry, Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-23T07:00:00.000-06:00

Hurry to Bethlehem ... wait, is your heart open?

We are all in a hurry... it is the 23rd of December. What direction are you going and what is your hurry?
Are you making a list?

1. We don't want to be left behind. Quick before they sell out.

2. We don't want to forget a gift for Aunt Mary.

3. We don't want to forget the cinnamon for the pumpkin pie.

4. We don't want to forget the candies for the stockings....or the fresh fruit. Hey, don't forget the nuts either. Mom always put nuts in our stockings.

5. Hurry, we must get it all done so we can rush into Christmas and then hurry to pick up the trash from the gift wrap... ah yes, don't forget trash bags.

6. Mark the days off the calendar. Make sure you put a huge happy face on the 26th... everyone will be gone and you get your house back.

7. Oh yeah... make sure you buy the egg nog.... you can have it with the leftovers when every one is gone.

Prepare your heart for Him. He is not going anywhere after the 26th. He is there ALWAYS.

I think I am going to order these as gifts for next year... given at birthday time for all my daughters. We are the heartbeat of our families. We set the pace, pardon the pun...for the heartbeat of our households. Available on Amazon... highly rated as well!
"Prepare Your Heart for a Great Christmas isn't for those who aspire to be Martha Stewart or Mother Teresa, but for all women who fall somewhere in between! Readers will discover: peace throughout the busy days, gratitude for the blessings of life, joy in rediscovering the anticipation of Christmas, and insights to carry the spirit of Christmas into the New Year."

Maria Rodgers O'Rourke is the author.

CLICK HERE to visit the Author's site and buy the book.

Words of my heart,

Laurie

Isaiah 9:6-7

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder, and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. Of the increase of his government and of peace there will be no end, on the throne of David and over his kingdom, to establish it and to uphold it with justice and with righteousness from this time forth and forevermore. The zeal of the LORD of hosts will do this.

This video also from 2009 is the next reading in the Christmas story. Again messy studio at our old house, but lots of love in my heart.

Preparation NO, Wait upon the Lord, Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-22T07:00:00.000-06:00

Preparation, NO wait, that's not it.... WAIT.

Are we ever fully prepared in life?

Many of us really try hard to the point we try and control everything around us to get there.
Obviously the Christmas season in the USA is lights, glitter and action from the middle of October until the 26th of December. The media gets it into our blood and we respond to the noise and color battered at us on TV, Radio and in the stores and malls. The results are huge. We spend more money, go further in debt, eat richer foods, drink more and are miserable after Christmas. Why do we do this?

Through Bible reading, opening our hearts to God through prayer and listening and waiting on His guidance, we can begin to rediscover the true glory of this season of celebration.

Spiritual living requires waiting. God does everything in His time, not ours. We are confronted with this daily as we try to push things in a direction and it never seems to work. Learning to wait and be attentive to Him is critical to spiritual living. Letting go of our 'agenda of preparedness' comes first.

Learning to wait and be open to life and not swayed by our own plans is truly a challenge in this household. God is here... He has been here. He is still waiting on me, sitting back just watching me stir things around into a bigger mess. Only when I stop stirring it up and sit down and wait upon the Lord, will I become aware of Him in my life.

In these last days of Advent I encourage you to Wait upon the Lord...don't worry about being prepared for all the 'stuff' going on... let it go. Walk away and go sit in a quiet place and put yourself in Him.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31

The Gathering in Bethlehem, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

They Traveled to Bethlehem...to the Gathering.

It was taxes that drew them 'gathering' in Bethlehem. Each man had to return to his home town for the payment of taxes.

Joseph took Mary there, carefully traveling with her on a donkey as they went from Nazareth to Bethlehem. It would have taken them five to seven days to arrive there, so they were well on their way to Bethlehem on the timeline of Christmas Eve and Jesus' birth.

Every one was coming 'home' to their village for the census and taxing that took place.

Again though, it was a gathering, a returning home.

Keep this close at heart this day... as you prepare for the 'gathering' and the return home.

Words of my heart, Laurie

"In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. (This was the first census that took place whileQuirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to their own town to register. So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child." Luke 2:1-5

Gathering, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

Gathering from the Greek word espepisunagoge.

The Greek word espepisunagoge actually means "gathering together" or "a get together".

When I think of advent, immediately comes the gathering of family and friends in celebration of the coming birth of Jesus; a gathering with God for the celebration of the birth of Christ.

As we make each day in the last week of advent, think of things you need to gather close in heart to be in light with Him. Prayer is at the top of my list. Prayer is a wonderful 'gathering' time.

Another would be the gathering every morning and evening lighting the advent candle for the day. A gathering of spirit and love in anticipation.

A third might be a gathering at meals, again to glorify Him and the treasures of this season.

Another will be Christmas Eve as we gather at services around the world in remembrance and honor for the story and birth of Jesus. A gathering in song, in music, in words, in actions and in deeds.

The Lord gathers us close to Him.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“And you, my child, will be called a prophet of the Most High; for you will go on before the Lord to prepare the way for him, to give his people the knowledge of salvation through the forgiveness of their sins, because of the tender mercy of our God, by which the rising sun will come to us from heaven” Luke 1:76-78 NIV

This video is a reading I did for my blog in 2009. From my heart to yours... from my very messy studio at the old house in Dallas. Remember this is the time of year I am constantly shipping things out at the last minute!

With Sounding Horns, Clashing Cymbals and Beating Drums, Words of my heart, A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-19T06:30:00.000-06:00

With Sounding Horns... and Clashing Cymbals and Beating Drums.

No small town is with out a Christmas Parade and these were shots from ours. The high school band marching by and playing their hearts out with sounds filled with love and heart. They had marched four blocks up hill by the time I snapped these shots.

What would you feel like by this time? Four city blocks up hill marching in line blowing a horn? It was really cold and windy that day. I would say this young woman was prepared. Countless days of marching band in 116 degree heat; game after game on a Friday night during football season performing on the field. She and the others could march those four blocks up hill blowing and playing every step of the way.

They are ringing in the joy of the season and sharing their enthusiasm... after four blocks uphill blowing a horn. Just amazes me. I laugh because my own daughter phoned yesterday entirely pooped out and exclaiming she may not be ready for Christmas with all the gift wrapping. I gently reminded her to refocus on the season for what it is to be in our hearts. That does not require the marathon of shopping and wrapping... just preparing, praying and knowing all will fall into place. No worry. No four blocks up hill. In fact it is down hill all the way.... Let go of all worries and concerns.

Words of my heart and the joy of the Christmas Spirit...Laurie

I have said these things to you so that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be complete.--John 15:11

Advent Sunday, Four Candles, Words of my Heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-18T10:45:00.002-06:00

Four Candles

This last week in Advent is a full seven day week fr us to become aware of what is truly going on in our lives these days and if it is truly bringing us in the season for the right reason. As our minister Jack reminds us, Christmas is often the loneliest time of the year for many people. Often there are sad memories attached or the death of a loved one. Sometimes is just purely being alone with out family or someone to smile at or sing Silent Night with.

Terry and I were watching a movie on the love channel called Lovely Still by Nik Fackler.

Nik was only 22 when he wrote the script for this film. His ability to identify so deeply to the different levels of his characters, decades older than he was at the time, is extraordinary.

It was around midnight when we turned it off before it ended, but I will be watching for it again because I want to see it.

Advent... it ties right in. The main focus is at Christmas and the holidays. Next, two elderly people played by Martin Landau and Ellen Burstyn.
There is a wonderful review to read about it if you click HERE.

The 'Advent' we celebrate coming into Christmas fills us with renewed hope and joy. To be alone at this time of year is the most difficult when you often have Christmas past and years of memories of what was a happier time. As we grow older, we are more burdened down by the world we live in. The world and life WE created, not God.

Christmas brings in challenges of budgets and expectations. It brings it excuses to party and the opportunity to eat unhealthy and drink too much. With it comes cultural pressures from friends and family to be certain places at certain times and to "join in" celebrations that are really not honoring Him or ourselves.

We come through this final week of advent almost still NOT ready. We are missing something.

Jesus embraced the world with its poverty and conflict when He lived among us. Today He desires to embrace each of us right now, even while you are feeling distant. Can you spend this week seeking Him and preparing your heart for this joy He offers you? Open your hands and heart and you will receive treasures unimaginable to your thinking.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

“Behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall name him Jesus. He will be great and will be called Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give him the throne of David his father, and he will rule over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” - Luke 1

Life - Round and Round it Goes, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-17T07:00:00.000-06:00

Life - Round and Round it Goes

Why do we get so mesmerized by trains under the tree going round and round? Adults and children alike will sit for an hour watching the shiny engine pull its line of cars around the oval track.

This is Terry's favorite train purchased when our 14 year old grandson was only 4...so ten years ago.

I wrote earlier that it took awhile trying to get the track together and how excited he was to hook it up. But he forgot to hook in the noise part. Our train has noise. I am hoping he will still hook it up, but if he doesn't, I love it just as much with out the noise.

What is the enticement of the train? I get the enticement of the tree, the lights, the ornaments and the keeping it in your heart year round.

Googleing around I found this wonderful article from the Detroit news. THE TOY TRAIN THAT RULES CHRISTMAS by Vivian Baulch written back in 2001. Ten years ago. The same time we bought our train for Jonathan.

We all watch the Red Ryder BB gun movie each holiday season... but the trains took over as the top gift for little boys. It is a really good read if you want to check it out.

Seems like the generational past of the holidays are vastly inflated by the teasing media to shop till you drop. The 'noise ' is important to them. Cha Ching.

Our lives are like that Lionel train... we go around the track with our lives. Where is your life going right now?

Words of my heart, Laurie

“[Mary’s Song] And Mary said: “My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for the Mighty One has done great things for me— holy is his name.” Luke 1:46-47, 49 NIV

Turning to the "SON", Words of my Heart by a Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

Turning to the 'Son"

As the third week in advent comes to a close, my mind and actions are surrounded by the joy of the season. This time of year seems to bring more smiles and hugs. This time of the year the grumpy-pants become the happy-pants. This time of year the SON brings out the best in all of us as we bloom in His light.

My poor Christmas Cactus almost did not make it this year. This summer Paddy the dog decided they were bathroom targets and he hit one pretty bad and the other one, Annie the other dog tumped over and laid in the dirt on the back porch.

(BTW...Schlumbergera is the correct name and it is AKA Thanksgiving Cactus, Crab Cactus and Holiday Cactus.)

Terry heard my wails and came running. We carefully put new dirt into a pot and replanted the one that was mushed by Annie. The one that bore the brunt of Paddy's liquids did not fare as well. Even with a new pot it only grew four blooms. It was my red one. The green stalks never gained their right color either.

After the replanting they were moved to the top shelf of my plant stand in the breakfast room. Slowly I nurtured them back to some type of health; the orange one perked up really quickly with my attention and God's sun.

The red one did not. Half the plant had dark grey-green stalks with no signs of buds and two stalks had tiny red nubs beginning to pop out right after St Nicholas Day.

I waited in joyful anticipation to see the red ones grow into full blooms and they did.

Christmas Cactus blooming in the light of the 'Son'. God is good. All the Time God is good.

You too can bloom at this time of the year. Just like the plants seeking the light and leaning their limbs and branches to stretch toward it, you can do the same thing. Seek Him. Seek the light and you will grow and bloom.

Words from my heart, Laurie

“But the angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God. You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.”” Luke 1:30-33 NIV

Joyful Memories Shared from my heart, by A Texas Artist, Laurie Pace

2011-12-14T07:00:00.000-06:00

JOY

Over the centuries we have celebrated the advent of the Christ Child with different customs from all over the world as well as different customs with families.

Growing up in the Justus household Christmas Eve was the magical time. Early supper and church at six thirty. The service was always filled with carols and a short message from the minister. Often the youth would do a pageant that night. The ending song was always Silent Night and the lights were off and every member held a candle. The church was St Paul United Church of Christ in Dallas. Founded by German families, this last song was sung in German. At the end we filed out blowing out our candle as we left the sanctuary.

At home Mom had trays of yummy Christmas cookies. Many were the traditional German cookies. Dad prepared egg nog and we shared gifts and warm times in front of the cozy fire. My memories today are of Dad as we put the tree up every year, hanging the lights on the inner edges of the branches, the ornaments near the front edges, but always leaving room for the single strands of tinsel on the tree limbs.

I asked mom once why we celebrated on Christmas eve. She said her dad had to work for the railroad on Christmas Day so they always did Christmas Eve.

JOY... memories that warm my heart. Laurie

“When he had called together all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: “‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’”” Matthew 2:4-6

The Colors of Christmas, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist, Laurie Pace

2011-12-13T07:00:00.000-06:00

The Colors of Christmas

Traditionally most of you think of red and green and think Christmas. The holly and the ivy, right?
Do you have all colors on your tree for lights or only white ones? Do you thematically decorate your tree or is it full of family ornaments from past generations?

The Colors of Christmas are just about as diverse as we are individually. God is undeniably the greatest artist I know working with three dimensional creations. His palette lacks nothing in values and hues.

If we all all part of His creation, just think how brightly we shine in our many reflective colors and personalities. Life would be pretty boring if we all looked the same or acted the same.

So by looking at us as well as creation... we are the colors of God.

Give me the grace this day to see those around me that have a broken heart or worry weighing them down. Guide me in staying with them in their sorrows as I ask for the courage to help them as they need help.

Words of my Heart, Laurie

“But when the set time had fully come, God sent his Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those under the law, that we might receive adoption to sonship.” Galatians 4:4-5 NIV

Light Leads the Way, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-12T07:00:00.000-06:00

Light Leads the Way

I was up early this morning at five a.m. Paddy dog was rustling around. Terry has been down for two days with headaches and dizziness. I believe it might be his glasses are the wrong prescription. We just picked up new ones last week.

I love mine. My sun glasses are in the picture.

Obviously Terry's glasses are not correct. So at nine this morning I will be calling the eye clinic for a check appt to see if the new glasses are incorrect.

Having the gift of sight is a blessing for most of us. When you are in need of corrective lens to truly have good vision, it is a challenge to adjust when they are incorrectly prescribed.

During Advent we are blessed with insight to the joy and anticipation of the Christ Child's arrival. The star shall advance from Jacob and a staff shall rise from Israel. If we are not clear in our vision of what this means in our lives, we need to search out the light to find the way to the Son of the Living God. If you are ready in your heart, He will lead you into the light.

Come Lord Jesus... be my guest and let my life to you be blessed.

This light will never fade. It will burn away the mists surrounding you. You say you haven't seen God? Are you looking in the wrong places? Are your eyes covered by distractions in life?

God gives us new vision and great hope through the light before us guiding us to return to His love.

We light again the third candle in Advent this morning.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

"In you, LORD my God, I put my trust. I trust in you; do not let me be put to shame, nor let my enemies triumph over me. No one who hopes in you will ever be put to shame, but shame will come on those who are treacherous without cause. Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long." Ps 25:1-5

Third Week in Advent Begins, I light the Candle of Joy, Words of my heart, A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-11T05:53:00.001-06:00

Third Week in Advent Begins

Last week we prepared our hearts for grace. The third candle we light as we begin this week represents the spirit of joy. Paul's words, "the Lord is near..." If you have candles with colors, the Joy candle is usually a rose colored. The faith of Mary, Joseph and Elizabeth show us how they prepared the way for Jesus' life to begin. Faith and generosity overcoming adversity and impossibility.

If your life situations are as upside down as mine are, it is time to let it be. These times in our lives seem to overwhelm our thinking and we obsessive about situations we have very little control over. Hard as it seems, this is the time to prepare our hearts and let go of the sadness and fears that hinder us from feeling the pure joy and hope which Jesus bestows on us. Let go of the world of conflict and division. Let go of the greed and lust we seek daily, as well as the power we want over our own lives.

When moments are overwrought with anxiety or fear, breathe slowly and deeply to gain a clear perspective. Acknowledge the greatness of the Lord in your life with both soul and spirit. Let the light of these candles remind you daily that the LIGHT shines into the dark places of your life revealing the ugliness. Ask for forgiveness and be quick to forgive others as God forgives you.

Rejoice always; pray with out ceasing. In all things give thanks to Him. We have the good news.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“You are to name him Jesus,
because he will save his people
from their sins.” Mt 1:21

Building to a Crescendo, Words from my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Building to a Crescendo

I marvel at God's greatness each daybreak as I wake to Terry starting his coffee or Paddy rustling around to wake us both up. The new brightness of this day and this moment and the many blessings that are surrounding me and God's love lifting me up from a good night's sleep. This morning I woke to the sound of Lady L's feet pattering in the hall and her loud whispers of "Bampa awake?"

The reminder on this Friday in this second week of advent is accept God's direction in this day. In our self-reliant independence we often forget He truly knows what is best for us. In our stubbornness it is easy to assert our way claiming control and what we define as freedom while we are truly creating a self-destructive life.

As the story of this day plays out, think of it as a musical composition.

Parts of this piece will build 'dal niente'. Those are the startling things out of nowhere. The encountering of friends is fortepiano, loud to soft and always in a crowd, in rillievo; some voice louder than others always standing out. The marcato moments, stressed and pronounced as well as the sotto voce, the undertoned moments in the day, softly whispered. Through out all of this He is calmando... always calm and steady.

Take today to enjoy the Father's touch in the composition of this day. Be drawn in the invitation to live your life touched by the grace of God with in you. Look forward in hope and turn to Him in trust knowing He will truly guide your steps as you work together on the composition of this day.

Words of my heart,
Laurie Pace

Threads of Family, Words of my Heart by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-08T07:00:00.000-06:00

Threads of Family

Too many memories to sort them all. Families are a basic weave of lives with different personalities. The fabric that comes from the weave is either strong with evenly spaced threads that are carefully threaded through evenly pulled and spaced. Loosely woven threads create a weaker fabric.

You never know with family. You don't choose them. You choose your friends but not your family. God seems to match us together ahead of time. It is how we interact and respond to each other that determines the weave in our family. We make those choices, not God.

Tomorrow would have been the 16th birthday of our Grandson Grant. God took Grant from us about five years ago. As a special needs autistic child, he brought so much love to our family. You could never anticipate much or plan much because Grant lived on the edge of constant joy. He made us smile. Grant left strong threads in the fabric of our lives.

So as we continue through this second week in advent, my thoughts wrap around that last hug from our precious grandson. We look to each day in our life and we truly are never ready for things that occur, but learning from Grant to take each day as a joy gives us purpose to smile. I know his sweet heart and his contagious smile and one day we will see him in heaven.

This is Grant's little sister. She was born about two years almost to the day after he died. This is the first painting I have ever done of Lady L.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

John 16:22 - "So with you: Now is your time of grief, but I will see you again and you will rejoice, and no one will take away your joy."

St Nicholas was Here...Words of the Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-07T07:17:00.000-06:00

St Nicholas was Here....

I shared on Facebook that my kids grew up different than most on the block. Coming from a German family, we always had a visit from St. Nick on the evening of the 5th of December. As children we hung our stockings awaiting the decision of St Nick if we had been naughty or nice.

Mom filled the stocking with small presents, fruits and candy. Back in the 'old days' we did not really get expensive big gifts.

So as my children were born we continued the tradition of St Nick. Christmas was reserved more for the spiritual aspect and all the wonderful happenings wrapped around our advent wreath morning and night followed up by Church and all of its Christmas pageants and Christmas Eve services.

I know we did a small gift from Santa each year for our children, but Christmas when they were young was not like it is for children today. Focus presents, not Christ Child. Every day we lit our advent candles and focused on the story that has been shared for generations celebrating the journey of Mary and Joseph in their spiritual lives as well as their trip to Bethlehem.

The missing of the Spirit of the season seems to grow by the year in our American Society. No longer is it simple, pure and blessed. It has become how much and how big.

What can you do in your life over the next few weeks to make some positive changes to bring back the Spirit of Christmas? Our daily struggles seem to make us tired as we struggle to make the day. It will be that way until you 'get it' that only He desires to set you free. Only you can decide to start at a new spiritual level and be restored. Hope remains in the Lord. He is calling your name. Prepare your heart for His coming, and not St Nick's or Santa's coming.

Words from my heart,
Laurie

"but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint." Isaiah 40:31

Looking Out the Window, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-06T07:29:00.000-06:00

Looking Out the Window

Each of us has inside something we are looking for or something we think we are missing in life. It is that 'object' or 'event' that if it just was resolved or if it just happened we could be happy. We wait and wait on that to come to us...watching out the window for it to 'arrive'.

This second week in advent would be the perfect time to turn away from that window of desire. Talk to Him about it. Let Him know what is in your heart and mind and then let it go.

As you pass through this day begin new ways of responding to challenging relationships and ruts you are in. Take a look at those habitual sins and see what needs to be dropped for the day.

God has the power to save each of us. We can be free.

Dispel our darkness with the light of your presence, and make us worthy of your gifts.

We are celebrating three days of constant rain in east Texas where we have been under drought for two years. I cannot tell you the number of days we gazed out this window and prayed for rain and only the sun was there beating down, the heat slowly killing our lands and forested areas. Relief came, but it came in His time, not ours.

Words from my heart
Laurie

"Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty savior, born of the house of his servant David. Through his holy prophets he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all who hate us. He promised to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant. This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to set us free from the hands of our enemies, free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life." Luke 1: 68-75

An Incredible Promise, Words from my heart by A Texas Artist, Laurie Pace

2011-12-05T06:43:00.000-06:00

An Incredible Promise of things to come, are you ready?

The holidays bring to mind a time of preparedness or getting ready. I am always amused by the stores that begin 'preparing' in October for Christmas. Each year it seems to get earlier when you see all the teasing lights, wrapping and ribbons. The colors trigger our minds to think of the holidays ahead and what we have to do to be ready.

Either drag the tree down from the attic or plan on where you will purchase your live one, and don't forget the ornaments and trimmings for the tree., or the train under the tree...
Double check your shopping list that you have not left anyone off.
Make decision about Christmas dinner, parties ahead and baking.
Plan out your calendar so events do not cross anywhere and you can keep it all straight in your mind.
Check your list daily for things you have forgotten and cross off the detailed things you have listed.

What exactly are you preparing for? For you or for Him? He is no where on this list. He is not part of the tree trimming or the train. He is not on your shopping list for a gift. He has not sent you an email or snail mail official invitation to a Christmas party. He truly does not care what you serve for food for the holidays. He does not check your list daily for anything.

What He does want:

He wants you to prepare your heart spiritually and let go of the notion of "things" needed in our worldly life.
He wants to give you gifts and they don't cost you anything but the simple acknowledgement turning your life to Him and lifting your hands to be ready to receive.
He provides everything you need for nourishment with out parties and dinners. Maybe using some of that 'prepare' for parties might be better spent helping feed some hungry people this month.
He wants you to keep things straight in your heart every single day, not on a list for your mind from event to event just for the 'holidays'.
He wants you to check in daily with Him all year round so you can receive your gifts and direction for the day.

This is His Incredible Promise to each of us. Are you prepared for Him in your heart?

Words from my heart,
Laurie

"Strengthen the hands that are feeble, make firm the knees that are weak, Say to those whose hearts are frightened; Be strong, fear not! Here is your God,he comes with Vindication; with divine recompense He comes to save you." Isaiah 35: 3-4

Anticipation, Preparing the Heart, Words of my Heart, by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-04T06:55:00.000-06:00

Anticipation - Preparing the Heart

In this second week of advent we begin to really anticipate the coming of the Christ Child. No matter what messes remain in our lives, it is time to look above to Him to be set free.

If you still remain head down concentrating on things in the worldly existence, this week it is time to lift your face to God's light. It is shining all around you, but your back is still to Him in your focus on other things. These things matter not in the spiritual realm.

Prepare your life for the coming of this joy. Turn to His light. Let go of what holds you down and raise your hands in praise to Him. He holds His grace ready for you to receive.

I learn this from a special woman. She of all people is trapped in a worldly situation not of her making. She does trust the Lord with all of her heart, and yet she knows she is an advocate responsible for someone's care.

When she gets home at night, she releases it all and turns to God in prayer immediately giving Him all the worries that fill her mind as she journeys through this earthly maze. If we could all learn to do this we would rest better at night and greet each morning open minded and ready to receive the goodness He has for us.

Words from my heart,
Laurie

Dear Lord,
Through the darkness, we look for your wisdom. we want our hearts to be open to you ready to receive your grace.
But sometimes in these days, our backs are turned to you and it seems that so many things come between us.

Help us to be awake, open and aware of the radiance and glory you bring to our lives.
Help us to be grateful each day for the blessings of family and friends.
May we be peacemakers in our own lives, and in the world.
Let each of us pray especially for the many difficulties facing our country and the world.

This as my Advent prayer today.

Isaiah 40: 1-5

"Comfort, comfort my people, says your God. Speak tenderly to Jerusalem, and proclaim to her
that her hard service has been completed, that her sin has been paid for, that she has received from the LORD’s hand double for all her sins. A voice of one calling: “In the wilderness prepare the way for the LORD; make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Every valley shall be raised up, every mountain and hill made low; the rough ground shall become level, the rugged places a plain. And the glory of the LORD will be revealed, and all people will see it together. For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.”

Let is Shine through Her Smile... Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-03T06:48:00.000-06:00

Let it Shine with Her Smile...

Last night Terry and I went to visit close friends to help put up their ten foot Christmas tree. The Mrs. of the family had surgery recently and is still couch bound. The Mr. was not looking forward to the job as it had never in all their years of marriage fallen to him to decorate the tree.

I was petrified I would put something in the wrong place as Mr. brought out a huge container about four feet in length and two feet wide and three feet tall. He popped open the lid and behold inside was a bounty of ornaments gently laid and stored. If there was one ornament, there were a thousand or more.

Slowly the men righted the tree and wedged it into place and our work lay ahead for the three of us. A fire burned in the fireplace toasting the room enough that I pulled off my sweat shirt. It was a work out for sure. It took about three hours to get all those ornaments on the tree. Mr asked Mrs repeatedly if we had enough hung yet. Her reply was always the same, "I put all of them on every year and they all need to be hung."

With almost every ornament Mrs had a story to share about a time or memory in life. Even while she was in pretty bad pain, she smiled and relaxed more with every bauble hung on that tree.

She directed us like an orchestra guiding her favorites to a position she could enjoy.

There were simple shiny colored balls that were fillers to catch light on the inside branches. There were huge 4 to 6 inch balls that hung in various places to fill in spots where needed. It was fun as we danced around the ladder and went from high to low and back to high, weaving colors and ornaments left and right. There were small candy canes and three foot candy canes. There were a multitude of Santa Clause figures and ornaments in all shapes and sizes.

We left around eight last night. All lights were off in the house and the tree glowed with its bounty. Mrs had fallen asleep on the couch with a smile on her face.

Words from my Heart,
Laurie

Those who are wise will shine like the brightness of the heavens, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars for ever and ever. Daniel 12:3

Beginnings and Expectations full of Grace and Truth, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-02T06:50:00.000-06:00

Beginnings and Expectations full of Grace and Truth

In any relationship there are beginnings and expectations. Most ignite with hope and excitement. Would it not be nice to wake each morning with that joy igniting your day?

I have memories of when Terry and I fell in love... we talked about it last night. We met in 1963, but it was in 1964 that the relationship began. We were in eighth grade. That first love is filled with new beginnings and expectations. You literally cannot wait to see him every day. Your emotions run wild from excitement to love, to worry and back again...but yet every day you wake in anticipation of seeing him. As we grow older do we have to be laden with the world on our shoulders? Why can we not wake today with that same joyful expectation?

No matter what the season is in life, there is a need to embrace the joy of the day.

With this first week in advent based on hope and expectations, I pray for that lightness in your life and your days. I pray for you to wake with hope and expectation to discover the gifts coming to you on this very day. Despite pain, illness, family troubles, financial stress, unemployment, and whatever else seems to burden you down, allow yourself to have time each morning to open your hands up to heaven and allowing God to carry your burdens. Begin to list those positive things you do have. Not just in your head, but list them on paper. Focus on them only.

Begin to nurture back the light and love in your life that seems to have been crushed out by the world.

I struggle often trying to separate my human frustration and problems from that spiritual relationship that offers total freedom from all the problems I carry, those rocks I pick up and shove into my pockets.

I choose to do this, and so do you. How do we stop collecting those rocks that weight us down?

I am challenging you now to let those problems fall from you. Let the wind (God's breath) take them off from your mind if only for a short time as you begin to grow spiritually. As you start this new relationship with God today have hope and expectations. He will not fail you.

It is your choice.

I light the candle this day to mark a new beginning to chose the light of God and prepare my heart in expectation of the celebration of Christ's birth. I will put aside the issues that cloud my mind and open my heart to receive His light.

Words of my heart,
Laurie

“[The Word Became Flesh] In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth.” John 1:1-2, 14 NIV

Memories of Christmas Past with Grandson Jon, Words of my Heart by A Texas Artist Laurie Pace

2011-12-01T07:27:00.000-06:00

Memories of Christmas Past

Our oldest grandson is closing in on 15 this next year. Not sure where the time has gone. We helped raise him in his younger years until about age 6 or 7.

Every Christmas Terry and I love to pull out the family ornaments and reminiscence. This little snowman was Jonathan's ornament that we kept to remind us of the Christmas' we spent together as family.

I will be sharing some of our favorites with you this month. The small one in back of the snowman is an old family ornament from the Pace household of the 60's. We still have a box of ornaments missing as well as my Christmas wreath for the front door. Terry told me he boxed it like my paintings but obviously it did not get marked.

So in the sparkle of the lights we sit back and remember the joy of this season with the first week in advent... hope and expectation...the coming of the Messiah. We lit our candle last night and read from Luke...

Words of the Heart
Laurie

Luke 1:11-18
Then an angel of the Lord appeared to him, standing at the right side of the altar of incense. When Zechariah saw him, he was startled and was gripped with fear. But the angel said to him: “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John. He will be a joy and delight to you, and many will rejoice because of his birth, for he will be great in the sight of the Lord. He is never to take wine or other fermented drink, and he will be filled with the Holy Spirit even before he is born. He will bring back many of the people of Israel to the Lord their God. And he will go on before the Lord, in the spirit and power of Elijah, to turn the hearts of the parents to their children and the disobedient to the wisdom of the righteous—to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.”

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

2011-11-30T07:08:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-29T07:17:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-28T06:53:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-27T07:38:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-26T08:01:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-25T07:43:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-24T07:00:00.000-06:00

"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

2011-11-23T07:16:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-22T07:00:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-21T07:00:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-20T07:00:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-19T07:14:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-18T06:30:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-17T07:04:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-16T07:00:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-15T06:57:00.000-06:00

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

2011-11-14T06:42:00.000-06:00

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