No. 85 On The Run
Contemporary Palette Knife Oil Painting Horse Art by Laurie Justus Pace

18 x 27 inches
Oil on Canvas

Contact me to purchase or for commission work: Laurie

SOLD from my BLOG! Thank you!!

"Come and see what our God has done, what awesome miracles He does for His people."
Psalm 66:5

A friend sent me the daily posting for Neale Donald Walsch. In his daily posting were the words,

"If you think you are looking at struggle, struggle is what you will experience. If you decide that you are looking at a gift (even if you can't see it clearly in this exact moment),
a gift is what you will get. Just wait. You'll see."

The sheer simplicity of this thought is HUGE. This morning I applied it immediately as I had gotten up early and cleaned house expecting an 8:00 am appt to arrive. At 8:30 I was still waiting. I felt I could not go in and paint as I would loose the energy built into the painting if I was interrupted. ... I waited and waited. Finally I phoned to see when they would arrive and was told they had another meeting come up.

Okay, so I closed my eyes and begin to think negative thoughts as to the wasted three hours waiting to get through this meeting before beginning my work day.... and I remembered the reading from the forwarded email. This was a gift. My house is clean...now I was able to do my work. I would not be worried at anytime while painting that I had to hurry to get the house clean. THE GIFT...IT WAS CLEAN.

So maybe this is something we can all put into practice. But, it will have to be something you have to stop yourself to do it every time. Make it a gift. Find the good in the situation.

Joyful Abundance,

Laurie

"Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:9

No. 83 Play Boy
Contemporary Daily Oil Painting Horse Art by Laurie Justus Pace

20 x 24 x 2 inches Oil on Canvas
SOLD from the blog! Thank you!
Contact me for more information: Laurie

CLOSE UP WITH THICK OIL PAINTS... no Impasto on this baby.

Will take extra time to cure to ship...look at those edges! LOL...I had fun today.

"Then Jesus was led by the Spirit into the desert to be tempted by the devil. After fasting forty days and forty nights he was hungry. The tempter came to him and said, "If you are the Son of God, tell these stones to become bread." Jesus answered, "It is written: Man does not live on bread alone, but on every word that comes from the mouth of God." Matthew 4:1-4

Okay, I hope some of you thought out some things to let go of for the next 39 days. Believe me, you will be tempted to forget one day and I am praying for you that God will tap you lightly on the shoulder to remind you that every one has to go through temptation in their lives. The temptation itself is not sin, but when we give in and disobey, that is sin.

I wrote yesterday that "shouting out to the world" what you are working on is not advisable and that is why I will not share my decisions of what I am working on. After Easter we will see what has grown in place of it and I go forth knowing that God walks this journey with me and with you.

I don't drink coffee, but I know lots of folks give up caffeine. I don't drink soda either.. that one would have been easy... also means chocolate. A good friend of ours that was our minister for a few years actually fasts by allowing himself only bread and water through out lent. He can have any type of break and he can dip it...but no other foods. He is released from doing this only on Sundays when he is allowed to eat anything...but the rest of the week, bread and water. I am not a huge bread eater...but I admire him for his fasting has a deep spiritual meaning for him for his spiritual life and direction. This forty day period is like a time of aligning yourself back to God's place, spending more time in prayer with the Lord.

We all have weaknesses that are easy to exploit. Often impatience and stress will drive us to do things that we should not. Use this Lent to acknowledge with Him; with Him you can do anything.

Joyful Abundance,

Laurie

""Jesus answered him, "It is also written: "Do not put the Lord your God to the test."" Matthew 4:7

No. 80 Lightning
Contemporary Art Daily Horse Colorful Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace


24 x 36 inches of thick oils!
Contact me if you are interested in this painting: Laurie

SOLD SOLD SOLD. Thank you!

"The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and I am helped. My heart leaps for joy and I will give thanks to Him in song." Psalm 28:7

I had another thought already composed when I realized I wanted to go a different direction and totally deleted it all! We are now in Lent. For new believers a quick definition of Lent as a period of fasting and repentance. It is commonly practiced by Catholics and certain Protestant denominations in preparation for Easter. History traces it back to the 4th century when it was given the period of 40 days. I always associated that with Jesus time on the mountain where he wen to prepare, fast and pray for his journey ahead. From my early childhood days I remember Mom always encouraging us to give up something during this time and to add something as well. Like we might give up chocolate for those forty days, but at the same time we might add reading in the bible every night for ten minutes, or add volunteering to help one of our elderly neighbors with her trash.

The bible never mentions or teaches that giving up things during Lent brings extra blessings from our Father. The New Testament describes it as, "When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they they have received their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you." Matthew 6:16-18

Fasting can be symbolic of giving up not just food, but something that means much to you for existence. Giving up sinful habits and practices during this period provides a time of forcing you to think as you hold yourself back from breaking your fast. The key would be to focus on growing in faith and repenting from your sins. You cannot increase His love for you, but you will gain a new respect and feeling for yourself that you can consciously achieve a higher spiritual endeavor. This will require "effort" from you to to go this journey with the promise you have made to yourself and to God. Your faith by action reinforces your trust that you have His power behind you to accomplish this.

Allow this 40 day period to be transforming for you in your spiritual, mental and physical health. You will be drawing upon your own inner strength and powers of resistance not to fall to be tempted to give up or give in to what you have settled on for your "fasting" over this period. That is where my smart mother came in with her balance of adding something. Add something to divert you to giving of yourself in other ways.

On a lighter note we went to visit the baby yesterday, but there was a huge crowd. Here is a picture Terry took of me with the Tink. I only had her in arms for about 5 min as there were so many people in the room, Terry and I did not stay long. I believe she looks like Larry, but we will see. God knows as He knitted together every blessed piece of this child.

Joy and Abundance,

Laurie

"An anxious heart weighs a man down, but a kind word cheers him up." Proverbs 12:26

A Bit of Wonder
Contemporary Horse Oil Daily Painting Art by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 30 x 2 inches of thick buttery oils!
Contact me to purchase: Laurie

"This is the day that the Lord has made; Let us rejoice and be glad in it".
Psalm 118:24

It was a day of celebration yesterday as Lauren Gracen was born. Stacey began her labor around nine in the morning and was ready to push by 12:15, but they held her off while getting things set up. Took four good contractions with multiple pushes and the baby was there! All grandparents accounted for to count the toes and fingers! My admiration is for my daughter and her bravery and calmness despite the tension and newness of what she faced. I was honored to be there as the baby was delivered seeing my granddaughter push out into the light and take her first breathe... and then cry... and that she did. Terry was able to participate and he and Larry helped with pushing and getting Stacey upright for the process and then Terry was honored to cut the umbilical cord. God is good... and blessed is our daughter, our son-in-law and our precious new grand-daughter.

Celebrating the miracle of life....
Laurie

"Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness; come before Him with joyful songs." Psalm 100:1-2

No. 78 March of the Toreador Rose
Contemporary Art Daily Painting Rose by Laurie Justus Pace

20 x 24 inches of Acrylic and Varnish layers on antique Music "March of the Toreadors"
SOLD FROM THE BLOG! Thank you!
Contact me for information to purchase... Laurie

" The flowers appear on the earth; the time of the singing of birds is come, and the voice of the turtle is heard in our land;" Song of Solomon 2:12

Curiously Flowers are not really mentioned often in the Bible. There are words of things flowering and blooming, but only three flowers are mentioned, the lily, the rose and the camphire.

The Song of Solomon contains all three. In the New Testament, Jesus spoke to the people of the lilies of the field in one of His parables. He also spoke of the vine, the orchards and gardens, but not specific flowers. Easy to understand that flowers we have here in North America are going to be different from what was grown in that region 2000 years ago. The Camphire was a henna plant growing wild still today in the Orient. It bears clusters of small white and yellow flowers. The Roses mentioned in the bible were probably a variety like a crocus, a rock rose or even an oleander; these were the roses from that region. The Lilies are probably the deep blue Hyacinth found native to Palestine and Lebanon and the white lily, found in northern Palestine. This white lily is our traditional Easter flower.

Today we are leaving shortly to join Stacey and Larry. I think Tink is on her way. So my blog is short and I hope you will stay in prayer for our family today that Lauren Gracen will embrace life with a lusty cry as we add a brilliant rose to our family.

Joy and Abundance,
Laurie


" The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose."Isaiah 35:1

Bevo Bound for the United Kingdom
Contemporary Western Art Longhorn Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace


SOLD and on its way this week to the UK
24 x 36 inches THICK OIL on Canvas
Contact me for Commission work: Laurie

"Flee the evil desires of youth, and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with those who call on the Lord out of a pure heart." 2 Timothy 2:22

This bevo is going to go on a long trip from Texas to the UK. He is Texas Born and Bred. Not sure where the BORN and BRED came from, was it a movie? I know in the UK they had a show entitled Born and Bred about four years ago. I think this little fellow will like his new surroundings and will take a bit of Texas with him; he was after all born/created on Texas soil.

You were born here on earth, on God's soil. This is God's turf isn't it? If you were blessed you grew up in a family that took care of the "Bred" part and brought you up as a His child in His word. Or maybe later in life you were really blessed to discover it on your own. So I guess in a nut shell you are born and bred to be HIS children. Take pride in this legacy of love and teach it to your children. His love and His grace and His word will mold their lives and the generations to follow after.

Does it benefit your children if you bring them up to be lovers of themselves or lovers of money? What will this society be like if the children today grow up proud, abusive and disobedient to their parents? They end up living life with out knowing love or goodness. Instead their lives will be filled with unforgiving attitudes and ungrateful thoughts for the blessings in life. They will be lovers of pleasure and not lovers of God. You can read all about this in the next few verses of 2 Timothy 2:22 and on....

I am feeling better this morning. Yesterday Mom brought lunch over to me and we had a good two hour visit. When Terry got home we went for a long walk in the neighborhood. I love our neighborhood. It is a meca for little ones and families.

Then we went to Central Market. I had been there with Stacey last week and thought we would try it out. I have to say the fruit at CM was better than Whole Foods, and they had a larger selection of bread and spices, but nothing else was better. It took twice as long to shop there as at CM they run you through a maze in the store, forcing you to go through areas you do not need to go to, but then you get stuck in maze traffic. NOT FUN. Then check out...eeeeekkkkk. LONG LONG LINES and no sackers. The register people had to sack while checking you out. That takes twice as long. Terry ended up sacking out stuff. I always shop with cotton veggie/fruit bags and our large canvas bags for packing. At CM you have to enter numbers to get tags on all the veggies and fruits you buy... the stickers do not stick on my fabric bags. I end up sticking them all over my jacket till we hit the check out counter. CM is not Green for the world, or they would not promote plastic bags in the veggie/fruit department. ALL the people working there were very helpful. That experience was pleasant. It may be hard but we may have to shop both places.

Still no grand baby for those waiting to hear. BELIEVE ME...when it happens you will read it here on the blog!!! Watch for updates. If our daughter does not go into labor this week, they will induce next week. GOD IS GOOD!

JOY JOY JOY, with a blending of Abundance,
Laurie

“Bring your children up in the training and instruction of the Lord”. – Ephesians 6:4

No 74 In Thought
Very Contemporary Art Figurative Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

15 x 30 inches of Pizazz. Varnish and Acrylic Overlays
A little off the wall, but truly an interesting piece on my easel. Contact me if you are interested.
Laurie

"Pleasant words are a honeycomb, sweet to the soul and healing to the bones."
Proverbs 16:24

Writing from bed as I am puny again. This has been a different week for me. The gallery opening at The Dutch Art Gallery was really nice and I wish I would have been there. My mother and brother went and stood in for me. I will run by on Tuesday to see the show as it is set up so nicely from pictures my youngest brother sent me.

So my thoughts today are on healing...the power of God to bring healing into our lives. Not just healing for our worn bodies, but healing all through our lives including relationships we might need to work on.

May your day be blessed richly with His Grace.

Joyful Abundance,
Laurie

"Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the LORD will be your rear guard." Isaiah 58:8

HIS BOOTS
Contemporary Western ART Boots, Cowboy Boot Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

20 x 24 inches of Mixed Mediums, lots of acrylic, varnish and other stuff!
Contact me to purchase. This is the FIRST in this series.
Mention the title in your email: Laurie

“He who covers over an offense promotes love, but whoever repeats the matter separates close friends.” Proverbs 17:9

There is something comforting about seeing my husbands cowboy boots on the floor by his chair. Usually his socks are stuffed hanging out of the top of each boot. It tells me he is home and when he is home I feel his protection and love surrounding me tightly. I am no longer alone at home.... he is with me.

What is your comfort from the Lord? What do you have visually that reminds you He is home with you, both in your heart and your home; what do you see before you that He is filling your every need, loving you and protecting you? Is it your bible? Is it a cross hanging in a room? What visually reminds you of Him in your home?

For Terry and I it is our collection of different bibles in every room. We enjoy reading different versions and then of course cross referencing as we go. I just stopped and called him and asked him what visually triggers GOD's presence in our home... and he said the cross by the front door. We have a wonderful metal cross we were gifted from John at Patina in Marble Falls, one of my representing galleries. The second thing he mentioned is my painting below. It was done back in 1999 and I have never wanted to part with it. I sell prints and giclees of it on occasion. It is the descending dove in fire and water, the symbols of baptism. The verse is:

"I baptize you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire."
Matthew 3:11

Then he said, "Our Home." This house is a home of healing and the presence of God is very strong with in its walls. It is undeniable when you walk through the door.

Praise Him.

As far as family catch up....

ART SHOW FROM 1 - 3 pm
DUTCH ART GALLERY IN DALLAS!!! BE THERE!!!
I will be there along with many local artists celebrating the arts!

It was a good day yesterday. Stacey looks very "dropped" and ready to deliver. They are in waiting... God will start the show sometime... and we are all ready.

Terry bathed the dogs yesterday and today after work will do haircuts. I spent an hour scrubbing down the floors in the studio. I still have to clean off my desk and organize somethings...but that will be today AFTER I paint. The new series above is stretching my mind in different directions. Growth is important as an artist. Change is part of God's world. There is so much to see and do... and one lifetime hardly seems like enough.

Wishing you a joyful weekend.... and abundance for all.

Laurie

"The second is this: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than these." Mark 12:31

No 73 DUST
Contemporary Horse Art Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 30 x 2 inches of layered pages from a western novel, varnish layers, acrylic paint layers and more varnish. LOTS more varnish.

Thanks! Painting is sold this morning.
Contact me for Commission Work. Laurie

"Then Abraham spoke up again: "Now that I have been so bold as to speak to the Lord, though I am nothing but dust and ashes,..." Genesis 18:27

Through the Dust

Even in Dallas we get our fair share of dust storms from west Texas. You can see it coming across the horizon in the west and the sky begins to turn a murky yellow. You have about 20 minutes to get where you are going and get everything buttoned up and shut in the house. The dust begins blowing through and it is worse than fog because it hurts if you are out in it. It stings and bites as it hits your face and your arms. You definitely should not try and breath and it will scratch your eyes if you allow it to hit your face unprotected.

The dust storm will rage for awhile and slowly over the next six hours it will begin to lessen bit by bit. When it is over you are left with a dusty mess everywhere. The dust touches everything and coats it all. That is when you are ready for rain, but it usually does not follow the dust storms.

I think about dust and I think about sin. You can usually see it coming before you do something you should not. You weigh things in your mind and you know right from wrong, but you do it anyway. The dust of sin blows into your soul and body and fills every empty place with its cruel biting bits cutting away as it hits over and over again. When you choose to do something against God's law, you will suffer through it over and over and repercussions will echo through out your life...sometimes for years. The sin touches every thing just as the dust does in a dust storm...and you are left with a mess to clean up in your life.

When you begin to waver or are tempted by something not worthy of the Lord, start praying...and don't stop until you are through the temptation. God can wash away the incoming dust storm and bring a soft rain to cleanse you. His renewal in your life is a saving grace.
If you made the wrong choice, know He can hear your prayer even through the dust.

Joy and Abundance,

Laurie

"All the rich of the earth will feast and worship; all who go down to the dust will kneel before him— those who cannot keep themselves alive." Psalm 22:29

Her Favorite Polka Dot Shoes
Contemporary Pot Art Daily Painting Shoe Art by Laurie Justus Pace

8 x 10 inches of Slick Acrylic Color Varnished heavily.
Contact me to purchase and include title of painting. Laurie

"And God said, "Let the waters swarm with fish and other life. Let the skies be filled with birds of every kind." Genesis 1:20

Polka Dots

God created the polka dot. Dots appear on so many things from the bark on some trees, to hard mottled rocks to flowers and feathers. When you think of animals that change colors and different types of foliage and camouflage... dots and polka dots are in all of it. Oh and how about those beautiful blue speckled eggs found in the early nests in the spring?

Have you ever flipped over some of those ferns that come from the florist? On the underside there are spots (spores) and what about all the animals with spots? Can you name some of those? Go to the beach and see fish and sea shells all gorgeously decked out in spots. My favorite flower on the stem is the Spider lily with its spots. Many birds have "spotted chests".

Golly, from fur, flower, fowl, fish, animals, butterflies and humans with freckles... polka dots are every where. Least we not forget mushrooms, toads frogs, turtles, worms, beetles and bugs. God has a wonderful sense of creation. I do believe He likes Polka Dots as much as my daughter does. I hope Lauren likes them too!

Terry skipped out on working on the kitchen to care for me last night. Sinus headache from our unusual weather tied in with unhappy stomach has kept me under the weather for several days now. I hope to paint this morning and get back into the groove.... I have an opening at the Dutch Art Gallery this Saturday, so if you are in the area, Saturday afternoon is the time, and the Dutch Art Gallery is the place. Pam is featuring several local artists so it is a beautiful display of colorful work in many styles. Email me for directions if you need them. I will be there as long as Stacey is not having the baby.

Do me a favor...see how many things you can find today with God's Polka Dots. Connect the dots back to Him.

in ABUNDANCE,

Laurie

"And God said, "Let the earth bring forth every kind of animal, livestock, small animals and wildlife." And so it was." Genesis 1:24

Longhorn Herd
Contemporary Palette Knife Art Daily Longhorn UT Bevo Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 36 inches Oil and Acrylic Overlays

SOLD just as I posted it here on the blog! THANK YOU!

Contact me for commission work for Longhorns. Watch this week for the Longhorn traveling to live in the UK! Laurie

"Let's sell Joseph to those Ishmaelite traders. Let's not be responsible for his death; after all, he is our brother." Genesis 37:27

STRESS

Did your parents ever tell you the old phrase, "You made your bed, now lie in it?" Humm, really can hit home can't it. Even when you are trying to do good, if you are not leading your actions by prayer, things really do backfire on you and you end up being responsible. Uncomfortable situations that cause stress in us are usually brought on by our own unwise actions. Joseph's brothers faced this problem. They wanted to eliminate Joseph; he was quite irritating to them. Their action to "sell him" created quite a bit of suffering and stress, more than Joseph would have caused them had they not bothered with "selling him".

As you make decisions in your life, lead out with prayer first. Even a small prayer will help. And not necessarily, "oh God, please let this be the right decision"... that only tells Him you are making this on your own without consulting Him. Try something more like, "Gracious Father, I need your grace and wisdom as I approach this situation. I am limited in time by man's clock, but know my time is NOT your time and I wisely defer my immediate need to you for guidance." Then wait, think about other things and busy yourself. Getting a fresh start back on the decision even thirty minutes later may find you in another set of mind. If the decision you had made was good then, it will be even better now because you have taken the moment.

On the house front, Terry is almost finished with the back splash. Another day of push and he will have that complete. He has put in almost 12 straight hours today. Stacey and I went out to do a quick grocery run and also checked out sales at Gymboree. Did I spell that right? She has new pictures of Lauren, but I forgot to snap a shot of it. Will try to do that tomorrow.... she still looks like her daddy... her lips, nose and her eye brow area.

The weather in Texas stinks. It is February and the grass is green and the dogwoods are budding. This is about two months early. Can you guys up north send us some more winter??? I still have not worn any of my wool sweaters yet.

"relax, don't worryabout it..." words from Genesis 43:23...

Celebrating Abundance,

Laurie

"And Judah said, "Oh my lord, what can we say to you? How can we plead? How can we prove our innocence: God is punishing us for our sins. My lord, we have returned to be your slaves, we and our brother who had your cup in his sack." "No," Joseph said."Only the man who stole the cup will be my slave. The rest of you may go home to your father." Genesis 44:16-17

No. 67 Running
Contemporary Palette Knife Art Daily Oil Painting Horse by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 30 x 2 inches Oil
Contact me for purchasing information and include title of painting: Laurie

"He does not ignore those who cry to Him for help." Psalm 9:12

I am there.

I think I reached that over saturation point of doing too much. I think I hit the wall. I know there are others out there in much worse shape. I only have to listen to the news to here that. The world is a frightening place filled with scary things. At the same time the bible promises me that God is able to protect us and help us and often He has to use miracles to do it.

I hang on to my faith this day; I know and acknowledge His assurance that He is at work in my life and in the lives of those around me.

Terry pushes on in the kitchen with the back splash. I did most of the pre boxing stuff he does and then he and I hit it hard boxing yesterday afternoon and dashed everything to FEDEX. Then I got an order for a poster, had to change out paper to print, cut, wrap and box for a shipment to Canada for this one poster. A lot of work for very little return...but I pray it brightens a home and a soul somewhere up there.

I am beginning to think downsizing and living with out so much is sounding better and better with each passing day. TOO MUCH STUFF....too many responsibilities.

Faithfully yours,

Laurie

"Keep me safe, O God, for I have come to you for refuge." Psalm 16:1

No 63 Headstrong
Contemporary Palette Knife Art Wild Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 30 x 2 inches Oil and Acrylic on Canvas
SOLD from this blog! Thank you!
Contact me for purchasing and include the name of the painting: Laurie

"It is my judgment, therefore, that we should not make it difficult for the Gentiles who are turning to God." Acts 15:19

RESPONDING

In my every day world I usually lose it over things like, "If people would just do their jobs." That is my typical response to most situations. Us humans tend to go off on tangents and we do not do what is obviously our responsibility to do. Yeah at home or work. I am one of those over focused left brained (only when I am not painting) people that will always ALWAYS put work over play, rest or relaxation. Sometimes to the painful realization that I should stop for a bathroom break occasionally.

Responding is a huge word today for my thoughts. It is an action taken daily by all of us in every waking moment of the day. Not only do we "Respond", we have the choice of how to respond or react to something. We can choose to be angry or happy. We can choose a path of not allowing things to get under our skin. We can choose to believe good is there buried deep beneath the pain.

In the bible verse above, James was speaking to an assembly of followers. Many Gentiles were turning to God and the Disciples did not want to make it difficult for them. They were responding to the needs of the Gentiles as they sought to be a part of the faith.

Our response to others in our life needs to adjusted to be in a Godly light, a positive light. Even when you feel persecuted or mistreated, adjust your response accordingly.

God does it for us all the time. He continues to provide for us despite the fact that He often sits for years waiting for us to respond to Him. Is He still waiting for you to respond?

Joyful Abundance,

Laurie

"But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown." Matthew 13:23

To The Rescue
Contemporary Art Child Figurative Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

9 x 12 inches
Oil on Linen Panel

SOLD THANK YOU>

Contact me to purchase or for commission work: Laurie

"I say to myself, 'The Lord is my portion; therefore I will wait for him.'." Lamentations 3:24

Trusting the Father.

Terry and I were walking yesterday and circled the nearby elementary playground where no less than eight different mini soccer teams were practicing. So many little legs kicking soccer balls while siblings played happily on all the wonderful playground equipment. This area is full of families, happiness and tons of children. This is where both Terry and I grew up.

As we continued our walk out through the neighborhood, we saw in front of us and across the street a little boy with a red cape tied around his neck. The red cape partially flew behind him trailing slightly on the concrete. He was holding his father's hand as the father pushed a baby carriage with the other hand. Terry remarked,

"It is special when a super hero in a red cape can still hold his father's hand."

I began to giggle and realized then the depth in what he had just said.... We all run around in our lives trying to be super heroes; we struggle to overcome obstacles daily and it seems to be bred in us to win win win. I also believe in the good in each of us that we wear that red cape and our hearts reach out to rescue others in need.

Jesus had a crimson "cape" placed on his shoulders just before he was nailed to the cross. He wore a crown of thorns on his head. Was he a super hero? He held the hand of His Father every step of the journey as he struggled to carrying that wooden cross; the crowds tortured and brutalized him.

As much as we struggle with daily in our lives, not many of us trust enough to place our hand in our Father's hand. WHY? I am guilty of it right now. If you are worried about something and are stewing about it, you are as guilty as I am. Banish those thoughts from your head and lift your heart in prayer to the Father. Extend your hand to take His hand. Heroic spiritual lives are built by the accumulation of days, weeks, months, and years of obedience to God, holding His Hand and following His way. Spurts of pleasing God on occasion do not mount to much. Consistent obedience builds the best defense against temptation and sin. You can keep your red cape on and still play super hero every day, but TRUST He walks with you to meet your every need.

"It is special when a super hero in a red cape can still hold his Father's hand."

Joy and Abundance,

Laurie

"And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have ben called according to His purpose." Romans 8:28

Think Pink
Contemporary Art Pink Tennis Shoes by Laurie Justus Pace

12 x 12 inches Acrylic on Gallery Wrap Canvas

SOLD this afternoon~ Thank you!

contact me for commission work like these pink sneakers...Laurie

“I the Lord search the heart and examine the mind to reward a man according to his conduct according to what his deed deserve.” Jeremiah 17:18

Bible Trivia.

The bible has over 700 references to the heart.

The most significant references involve the heart representing a person’s will or desires. God wants people to love Him with all of their heart. God knows all the secrets of your heart. God’s law must be in your heart. Man is to be pure of heart and our actions and speech every day mirror our hearts. The heart guides us at all times, but the heart can be wrong if it is not guided by God’s word. If you stray from God, He wants you to return to Him with all of your heart.

One of my sources referred to the Bible consisting of four elements of heart. The first is the heart of emotion.

“Do not let your hearts be troubled. Trust in God; trust also in me.” John 14:1

The second is the heart of will.

“From what you have, take an offering for the Lord. Everyone who is willing is to bring to the Lord an offering of gold, silver and bronze;” Exodus 35:5

The third is the heart of intellect.

“He has blinded their eyes and deadened their hearts, so they can neither see with their eyes, nor understand with their hearts, nor turn – and I would heal them.” John 12:40

And the last is the conscience.

“When the people heard this, they were cut to the heart and said to Peter and the other Apostles, “Brothers, what shall we do?”
Acts2:37

Jesus reminds us:
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Luke 12:34

Happy Valentines Day... from my heART to your home...

Laurie

“As He looked up, Jesus saw the rich putting their gifts into the temple treasury. He also saw a poor widow put in two very small copper coins. “I tell you the truth,” he said, “this poor widow has put in more than all the others. All these people gave their gifts out of their wealth; but she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on.” Luke 21:1-4

no. 62 Horse in the Wind
Contemporary Layered Acrylic and Oil on Canvas Daily Horse Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 30 x 2 inches
Contact me for additional information or to purchase. Laurie

"Now Abel kept flocks, and Cain worked the soil. In the course of time Cain brought some of the fruits of the soil as an offering to the Lord. But Abel brought fat portions from some of the firstborn of his flock. The Lord looked with favor on Abel and his offering, but on Cain and his offering He did not look with favor. So Cain was very angry and his face was downcast." Genesis 4:2-5

The Second Child/ The Middle Child Syndrome

How many of you are "the middle child"? I am. I have always considered myself totally different from anyone in the family. I look like my mom, but nothing else truly matches anything with my brothers. If every one in my family put their hands together in prayer, I believe they all have left thumbs on top. Mine is right. I am the "different one" that left Dallas to find my way and have lived in Nacogdoches TX: Houston, TX; Beaumont, TX; Fort Thomas, KY; Tulsa, OK; Trophy Club, TX; Justin, TX; Argyle TX; Grapevine, TX; St. Louis, MO; and of course, Dallas, TX.

My life has been my journey and the tremendous relationships I have made with each stop have blessed me with abundance of meeting and knowing so many others in my life time. In every place I have lived, I have taught in that community. From music to American history, from art to Texas History, from general classroom to piano and guitar. God has gifted me with the desire to serve and teach and I feel blessed with this gift.

God wants us to use our gifts.

Abel was the second child born to Adam and Eve. Abel was a shepherd and he always honored God with pleasing sacrifices. Cain was the eldest child of Adam and Eve. Both boys knew what was expected of them with regards to God and how they lived their lives. When I read the story of how both boys brought their sacrifices to God, the bible truly does not indicate why God did not like the sacrifice that Cain brought to Him. Why was he rejected? It might have been his attitude or it might have been that the fruits of his crop that he gave to God were the left over fruits, not the first fruits. Proverbs 21:27 says "the sacrifice of the wicked is destestable- how much more so when brought with evil intent." Seems to me that God knows our motives before we do and He recognizes the quality of what we bring to Him. Now today we do not bring "Sacrifice" but we do bring pray and praise. How joyful is yours? How serious are your thanks and praises? What is your "behind the scenes" motive to pray?

Are you using your gifts?

Obviously the jealousy Cain felt for his brother was his beginning of his end. He allowed jealous anger to cause him to sin and he took his brother's life. Do not be victims of sin...do not let sin be a master over you. Keep your intentions high and worthy of God.

Joyful Abundance,

Laurie

"By faith Abel offered God a better sacrifice than Cain did. By faith he was commended as a righteous man, when God spoke well of his offerings. And by faith he still speaks, even though he is dead." Hebrews 11:4

no 56 Miniature Roses
Contemporary Floral Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

11 x 14 inches Oil on Linen Panel
Contact me with title for purchasing information or to commission a painting. Laurie

"For whoever does the will of God, he is my brother and sister and mother." Mark 3:35

I truly do not know the direction this blog is going but I am praying as I do go forward. Two things keep streaming through my mind, "My Brother" and "Crowds of People".

When my kids were young their favorite Seuss book was Are you my mother? We wore the cover off several editions in short time. Do you know the story? There is a mother bird that leaves baby bird in the nest to go find him something to eat. Baby bird wakes up and looks around and begins to wonder? and WANDER. He goes looking for his mother. He approaches bull-dozers, dogs, cats, etc and each thing he encounters he asks the same question, "ARE YOU MY MOTHER". Finally the end of the story he see this huge airplane flying over head and decides that has to be his mother...but at last it is not... his mother appears with a worm for him and they do live happily ever after. I like those endings. My youngest son loved to play the game. We would be in a store and him in the basket of course and as we walked down grocery aisles he would ask women we passed, "are you my mother?" Yes, I had quite a few puzzled stares.

When you are out in the work a day world surrounded by the massive seas of humanity, how do you know who to trust and who is a believer? How do you know "are you of my Father?" You can't really walk up to them and say "are you my Brother?" Or can you? I believe if you stop and study an individual for about 2-3 minutes, you can pull together an idea of what type person they are by how they interact with people around them. During that time prayer helps too.

Think about it, one face in the crowd is soft and elderly on the outside. Inside are hidden thoughts to snatch your purse when you drop your guard. There is the face of a young 19 year old kid with tatoos and an ipod; he looks kinda scary, but when the old person snatches your purse and takes off before you can even react...that 19 year old kid sprints ahead and snatches the purse back from them and returns it to you. How do you know who is your brother? It didn't take long to figure that one out.

God's family is accepting and will not exclude anyone. Jesus did not show partiality as He allowed everyone to come to the table and know God. You must obey God to be part of His family. He is the Father. Every day lives are transformed by God. Jesus' disciples were all ordinary men from ordinary jobs, but through their belief in Him as He was resurrected, they became powerful witnesses to carry forth the good news. They became extraordinary.

Show the best part of what God gave you as you interact with your world.

Joy and Abundance,

Laurie

"A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into thefire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them." Matthew 7:18-20

LEAVING No. 55
Contemporary Palette Knife Art Horse Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 24 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me with title to purchase or for commission work. Laurie

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

STORMS rolled through from 9 till about 11 last night and we have been with out power until just now. Forgive the late and short post.

I am off to fix breakfast for my daughter, work on my taxes and then paint paint paint. I took some pieces up to the Dutch Art Gallery for the Feb 21st show. I hope if you live in the Dallas Ft Worth Area you would come by and see all the work from local Dallas Artists.

Last night we celebrated my parents 58th wedding anniversary. We had dinner at ST Cafe near the house and it was wonderful. Most every one enjoyed chocolate souffle while I munched down one of their wonderful shortbread cookies. Makes my eyes roll shut remembering. They are sooo good.

I feel that way about God as well. Sometimes things are so good and I know He has brought the joy and celebration of that moment.

When things are really going bad for you, try and remember something really special that happened to you and how you felt then at that time. Glorify God for His love and His constant care of you and thank Him for the good times as well as the challenging times. Your blood pressure is going down right now!

Joy and abundance
Laurie

"I will ask the Father to send you the Holy Spirit who will help you and always be with you. The Spirit will show you what is true." John 14:16

No 59 Ponies
Contemporary Art Palette Knife Daily Horse Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

20 x 24 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me with title for purchasing information: Laurie

"and I, even I Artaxerxes the king, do make a decree to all the treasurers which are beyond the river, that whatsoever Ezra the priest, the scribe of the law of the God of heaven, shall require of you, it be done speedily." Ezra 7:21

The verse above reported to be the only verse in the entire bible that has every letter of the alphabet in it. Stacey spotted no "J" above so it might be only in a certain version. Trivia I realize, but just one for your Tuesday morning. We found this information in (Grandmother) Annie Pace's bible, which has been rebound, and was presented to her many years ago by Terry's Dad, Ben.

This particular chapter in Ezra is explaining why Artaxerxes exempted temple workers from paying taxes. He recognized that the religious leaders played an important role in the community so he freed them of tax burdens. Artaxerxes was a pagan king, but he recognized and supported this principle for all spiritual workers to keep worldly burdens from their lives. Ezra points out quickly that God put this in the pagan king's heart.

When you are facing life's challenges you have to work diligently and often with more effort than normal. You must realize that God oversees ALL OF YOUR WORK. Acknowlege His hand in your life and your work as you find success and give Him praise for His continued help and protection.

Terry and I woke this morning, both overwhelmed by our current state of responsibilities and both feeling burdened. We prayed together and we are up hitting the list, him in the kitchen laying the back splash and me here in the studio.

May your day be filled with positive progress toward your goals as you finish something today. Remember to Thank God.

Joy and Abundance,

Laurie

"Praise be to the Lord the God of our fathers, who has put it into the king's heart to bring honor to the house of the Lord in Jerusalem in this way." Ezra 7:27

GOD IS LOVE
Contemporary Art Child at Piano Mixed Medium Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

16 x 20 inches Antique Music with varnish layers, acrylic layers and more varnish layers.
Contact THE DUTCH ART GALLERY to purchase.

"When I am afraid, I will trust in you. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me?" Psalm 56: 3-4

This piece is entitled GOD IS LOVE because that is the music I chose from the collection of antique music from Great Granddaddy Haskell.

It often seems in days filled with so much outside stress that much fear builds within each of us. It starts small and begins gnawing away at our confidence and our hope. Eventually it takes over in our every day life and actions. Psalm 56 was written when David was sized by the Philistines. His writings through the Psalms to me are so inspiring because he bears his heart to God. He literally cries out in his pain and his passion as well as in his celebration of his life, his love for God and his praise to the Father. There is always a Psalm that David has written to tie in to my day where ever I am in my journey.

Trusting in God to care for us when we are buried in the midst of fear will bring the light we seek to go forward in life. God wants us to entrust Him with our problems, but most of us hold on tight to them and battled through, draining ourselves of energy and life. This verse in the Psalms is David's simple thought that mortal man cannot touch his soul. Mortal man can inflict pain, suffering and death, but no other person can rob your soul of the love of God.

When all is dark around you, one truth will continue to shine, His truth. God is there for you.

Joy and Abundance,

Laurie

"Do not be afraid of those who kill the body but cannot kill the soul." Matthew 10:28

TWO BLUE
Contemporary Art Palette Knife Horse Contemporary Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

18 x 27 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me to purchase and mention the title: Laurie

""They will be mine," says the Lord Almighty, "in the day when I make up my treasured possession, I will spare them, just as in compassion a man spares his son who serves him. And you will again see the distinction between the righteous and the wicked, between those who serve God and those who do not."" Malachi 3:17-18

Sunday has caught up and I am behind and wanting to spend time out of the studio and not painting today. Forgive the short post and know I will return with my endless writing tomorrow!

May He bless your day with the richness you deserve as you serve Him in all you do and say.

Laurie

No. 49 Energy Red Series
Contemporary Palette Knife Art Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace


SOLD 2/08/2009
THANK YOU!

30 x 30 x 3/4 inch Oil overlays on Acrylic
Contact me to purchase. Laurie

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?" Psalm 27:1

Looking Forward to Date Night

Well Terry asked me out on a date for tonight. We are going to go to the boat show. I have always dreamed of living on a huge sailboat...NOT...but maybe enjoying one with sides at least. We have two English Dart 18 ft Racing Catamarans. When I hit fifty I told him I needed a boat with sides. We are in no position to buy one right now, but I absolutely love looking at them.
So we have tickets to the Dallas Boat Show! I might wrangle dinner out as well, but with it being flu season... I may think twice.

My mom and brother were both hit by the flu bad this week. Mom is almost recovered. My younger brother had it hit as he flew into Houston last Sunday night. I try to keep this house bacteria and virus free because of Stacey and her pregnancy. We are hoping maybe the baby will arrive next week and we need everyone healthy.

Terry's dad looks forward to holding his great-granddaughter before she gets fingerprints all over her... Ben...you gotta be healthy..no colds allowed. Little "Gayle" is anxious to meet her great-grandfather. ("Gayle" is the nickname Ben has given Lauren... he has been waiting for a little girl in the family for 58 years... she is the first... and she is the "Gayle" he has been waiting for!)

So many things to look FORWARD to ... date night and a grand-daughter.

When you think about the old miners working underground in the dark of the earth, holding their lanterns up to light their way...they truly never knew what was ahead of them as they walked through the mine shafts. Pressing forward and straining with their eyes to see what was ahead, they were never sure what was beyond the light from the lamp. They knew to only look forward to emerging into the daylight on top of the earth.

In life none of us truly knows what lies ahead for us. We should always be prepared with knowledge and gathering wisdom to deal with the many obstacles and dangers. Even with prayer we truly never know what lies beyond our "light". We continue to look forward to what is ahead in our lives. Many of us wear those fabulous rose colored glasses to see things better. I can't help but wonder what Mary thought when she knew she was carrying Jesus, the Son of God. She knew not what future was ahead for her special child but committed Jesus into the hands of God to fulfill the purpose of His promise. Did Jesus sense as a child that He was "special"?

The same is true for all of us as children of God. We do not know what lies ahead for us anymore than Mary knew about life for Jesus. We do know that if we stay committed to God and follow His light, we keep our hope of eternal life with Him in heaven. I believe as well that I will keep my rose colored glasses on. I like seeing the best in everyone and everything as I journey forward.

What lies ahead in your day today?
Pray it forward with Joyful Abundance,
Laurie

"For thou wilt light my candle: the LORD my God will enlighten my darkness." Psalm 18:28

No 44 Landscape Hill Country
Contemporary Art Landscape Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

SOLD early this morning! Thank you. 2/06/2009
15 x 30 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me to Purchase and mention the title: Laurie

"The man said,' The woman you put here with me, she gave me some fruit from the tree, and I ate it.' Then the Lord God said to the woman, 'What is this you have done?' The woman said, 'The serpent deceived me, and I ate.'" Genesis 3:12-13

The Blame Game

When this phrase first came to mind a few moments ago and I began to pray about it, a vast ocean of thought washed over me. Did you realize the blame game started with Adam and Eve, our first ancestors? Eve blamed the serpent, Adam blamed Eve... How many years ago was that? And we still play it today. There are articles on natural disasters and who to blame...God? There are stories on women killing their children and who do they blame....God told them to do it. When spouses play the blame game they both lose. When you do something wrong the first thing most folks do is try to shift the blame on something or someone else. Sort of a human made game still happening today.

Taking ownership and responsibility for our actions is often difficult. It might reflect our sinning nature or our ability to actually do wrong if even by accident. Now in the midst of this huge financial crisis hitting the United States, the Blame Game is in full swing. Some folks are profiting off of it, some are losing their jobs and homes. Some are taking their own lives. Who are you blaming for this crisis?

If you turn your mind back to the bible to the story in Luke's Gospel about the unscrupulous tax collector named Zacchaeus, you would be reminded that Jesus' encounter with this man, by staying in his home, affected Zacchaeus deeply to a point that he changed his entire life around and transformed his ways. Jesus saw the good in Zacchaeus and most likely Zacchaeus was not accustomed to being treated as a valuable person.

We learn from this lesson that God's message of love and compassion is important to keep front and center in our own lives. Spiritual reformation can happen at any time and how you respond and treat others can actually trigger such miraculous changes. Look for the spiritual good in everyone. Meanwhile, take responsiblity for your own actions and each day as you do sin, look to the Father; He continues to smile at the good in you despite your missed steps.

If you are hurting or in a bad place right now, it is always easy to blame someone else for your situation, but that doesn't solve the underlying problem. Reach out to God and experience His Love. When you trade out your thoughts from the "blame game" and switch them to His praise, you will begin to feel better and see positive changes in your life.

Walk away from the Blame Game today. Step into God's light and love. Feel the difference.

With Simple Words of Praise and Thanks to the Father....
I leave you with joyful abundance.

Laurie

"All the people saw this and began to mutter, 'He has gone to be the guest of a sinner.' But Zacchaeus stood up and said to the Lord, 'Look, Lord! Here and now I give half of my possessions to the poor, and if I have cheated anybody out of anything, I will pay back four times the amount.' Jesus said to him, 'Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save what was lost.' " Luke 19: 1-10

No 50 Energy Red Series
Contemporary Art Palette Knife Acrylic/Oil Overlays Horse Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

SOLD 2/08/09
Thank you!

30 x 30 x 3/4 inch Gallery Canvas Oil overlaid over the Acrylics
Contact me to purchase and mention the title of the painting: Laurie

""He will reply, 'I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.' " Matthew 25:45

Well, I posted my red Valentine painting a day late from the group... But my heART is here and in the swing of it all. Blasting into this season of love and Lent coming up I am exploring the contrast of dark and bright, seasoned with light and in future pieces just the opposite. The work will be centered around color theory.

I think the question I am asked most, is "How do you come up with your ideas of what to paint?" I also remember discussing recently with another artist the days before... THE DAYS BEFORE....

This would be the days before stepping out in faith and leaving the classroom and monthly paycheck for the grace of using my gift of art. Sort of a quiet moment when you are sitting there, or standing there, with an empty canvas before you, an empty sketch book next to you; the paints are new and neatly stacked in color order; brushes ready in the brush holder with the linseed and paper towels nearby.

I am here.
I have no more paychecks coming in from the school district.
I am free.
I am poor with no income.
I am rich with talent.
I have no clue what to paint.
What do I do now?

Looking back I laugh now. I can afford to step back and laugh. Notice all the I's.... As I sat there ready to step out in faith, I was centered in myself and the room. I was centered all in the I's.

The work from my studio is God centered and spirit led. Each painting is prayed over before it is begun. Even when sketching ideas out, which is usually at night before bed, the Holy Spirit is sought to guide me.

God is here.
God provides for my every need.
God's love and grace are free.
Money is not a necessity in His world.
God has provided gifts to be used.
The Holy Spirit works 24/7.
Listen, He will tell you...

God-centering your life is a choice and a change you can make. We are all so distracted in our self-centered lives, we follow our list of priorities, which often are hiding our personal agendas. To take the time to study the scriptures and live by what is in the bible means us giving up our personal goals and trusting that God will set us on the path for our own greater good. Trying to do this alone is a daunting task. That is why it is so important to have Christian friends and even a church family to keep you centered in God and not yourself. Being accountable makes it a priority.

GOD CENTERED...try it, see how it bursts through your life and magnifies the depth of living and appreciating everything you have.

With Joyful Abundance,

Laurie

"Do not ignore it when the Lord disciplines you, and do not be discouraged when He corrects you. For the Lord corrects those He loves, just as a father corrects a child in whom he delights." - Proverbs 3:11

BOYS ON THE BEACH
Contemporary Palette Knife ART Dog Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

SOLD
24 x 48 inches of strength and color, Oil on Canvas
FRONT COVER of The Sighthound Magazine Issue 9/10 Winter 2008-2009

:::THE COVER:::

"As the deer pants for streams of water, so my soul pants for you, O God." Psalm 42:1

It was such a surprise to get the mail in today and find a package with two copies of the newest SIGHTHOUND Magazine in my mailbox. One of the paintings I did last year for a collector in Sweden last year is the front cover of the Winter 2008-2009 Magazine. MY BABIES!!!! I love it!

GOD IS GOOD!

I truly have to give thanks to a collector in Ohio, Anne, who advised me last year to begin painting these wonderful dogs because of their grace and build being so similar to the horses I paint. Thank you Anne for giving me another purpose and direction with my artwork.

When I think of the connections of so many generous people that came together for this to happen, I know God is in the midst of it all. There was a purpose as it all begin to unfold last year about this time.

So today I pray you will begin the day with peace in your heart and live this day with purpose to be in God's grace. Share His peace, His joy, His strength and His blessings with everyone today. It is so easy in life to drift from the true purpose that is in His plans for you. Our own desires begin to creep in and change our direction so easily. We begin living each day to live and not to give. So today, pray before you begin...pray to live this day with a purpose to honor Him.



In Joyful Abundance,

Laurie

"Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says" James 1:22

THE YOUNGEST
Contemporary Palette Knife Art Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

SOLD (No.4 out of 4)

This is the last of the four in the Series. I just finished it this weekend and took pictures.

Contact me if you are interested in commission work: Laurie

"I will praise the Lord at all times. I will constantly speak His praises. I will boast only in the Lord; let all who are discouraged take heart. Come, let us tell of the Lord's greatness, let us exalt His name together. I prayed to the Lord, and He answered me, freeing me from all my fears." Psalm 34:1-5

Have you ever had FEAR creep in? I mean really fear that makes you quake in your shoes. Some fear you can describe as uneasy and some fear you can describe as panic type. Fear, as someone once wrote, False Evidence Appearing Real.

Fear tends to grip all of us at different times in our life. It is definitely a human thing. Many things happen in our life times that can create an environment that breeds insecurity and fear. I am sure Job must have experience fear through out his trials. How would we respond to similar situations? The hardest thing to do is trust my words that you must find praise for God in the midst of your deepest fear and worries. Whatever worries you right now, you need to bring it before God. Thank Him for what you have and acknowledge that He is greater than any of your fears.

It is God's love that takes away our fear.

Remember as a child being afraid? Who did you run to? As a young child, you probably ran to your mother. As you grew older it might have been her or your dad. Feeling their arms around you was one hundred percent protection that nothing could get you any more. You were SAFE.

If you can trust that God's arms will hold you in that same protection, your fear will disappear. Immediately you will feel His love safely surround you.

God is always with you. Fear Not.


With Joyful Abundance,
Laurie

"Enter His gates with Thanksgiving and go into His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever..." Psalm 100:4-5

No. 45 Blue Iris
Contemporary Art Flowers Iris Oil Painting By Laurie Justus Pace

15 x 30 inches oil on canvas

SOLD

Contact me for purchasing. Mention the title of the painting. Laurie

"In everything set them an example by doing what is good." Titus 2:7

By Example. Do everything knowing you are setting the standards for those around you and it is important for you to set a Godly example for others.

Knowledge is an important thing in life. Knowledge leads to wisdom...but more important is to teach the basic example of living an exemplary life honoring God. Others pick up on your examples observing how you walk the walk.

Through self-control when you are presented in a tight situation, you provide leadership and positive action to resolve the situation. Maintaining integrity is also a wise step. Always be eager to do good and help out others around you. The example you set affects many other lives. You never know who is watching you. When your patience is being tried, learn to let go of the building frustration and anger. Lead with the Lord and He will provide what you need every time.

Walk the walk and talk the talk.

Joyful Abundance.

Laurie

"Give special emphasis to these matters, so that those who believe in God may be concerned with giving their time to doing good deeds, which are good and useful for everyone." Titus 3:8

The Young Stallion
Contemporary Palette Knife Art Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

SOLD (#3 out of 4)

This is the 3rd piece in a four piece commission group for a collector in California. If you study the colors in "The Sire" and "Ma Mere" you will find this painting to be an even blend of the two. Just as a child would be of their parents. I would welcome doing custom commissions for your home, just contact me: Laurie

"You will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you." John 8:32

A short blog with a great dawning. Yesterday was a full day as I almost caught up in the studio. I had the false pleasure of thinking at 2 pm that I was done for the day and started cooking dog food (another story for another time) and took Annie for a walk and enjoyed the 65 degree sunny weather here in Dallas. I didn't realize by 5:30 before all my dinner guests arrived I would have studio melt down with shipping issues and gallery sales requiring immediate attention. I was also thrown off by something I noticed during our family dinner. My heart felt it and my mind fought it. I had to immediately reflect on the book I finished several weeks ago, "Setting Boundaries for Adult Children" and I have to move on beyond the panic that filled me.

Then this morning I opened up to "You will experience for yourselves the truth, and the truth will free you." John 8:32

I cannot change what my heart and eyes felt and saw and my mother's heart cracked a little bit more. I pray I am wrong, but know from past experience that I probably am not wrong. This is by far one of the hardest things I have to do in life and that is to let go and let God. It is more than obvious that God has His own spiritual and psychological time table. Our emotional hurts will eventually heal and at that point acceptance of life as it is seems to be a positive step to being 'whole'.

Think of your emotional "sore" (and we all have one or two on hand right now) as being 'scabbed over'. That crusty scab protects the wound while you are healing. Over the first few days the swelling subsides, and although the scabbed area still is sensitive to touch, the scab begins shrinking and eventually the day comes that the scab falls off. Underneath the scab, new skin will form; when the scab is gone, this new pink skin is evidence of God at work with your body and healing. After the healing time, you still tend to protect that area out of habit, but the day eventually comes that healing is complete. No one notices the injury any more to ask their probing questions of "what happened?" This too is part of God's time table.

Our human trait of impatience cannot speed up anything but our blood pressure. It is a small lesson in patience to watch a wound heal. As a mother, the difficulty lies in seeing your child "wounded" and watching them continuing to pick off that scab making the wound bleed and fester even more. My sin is in NOT giving the situation over to God. I cannot change an adult child, nor can I save them or remake them. I am not God. I am only a mother with a broken heart that I must now allow to heal.

Continued Joy and Abundance,

Laurie

"Give all your worries and cares to God, for He cares about what happens to you." 1 Peter 5:7

"In His kindness, God called you to His eternal glory by means of Jesus Christ. After you have suffered a little while, He will restore, support and strengthen you, and He will place you on a firm foundation." 1 Peter 10