DANCING IN COLOR
Contemporary Horse Art Oil Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

20 x 24 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me if you are interested in this painting: Laurie

SOLD! Thank you.

"Lay aside immaturity, and live and walk in the way of insight." Proverbs 9:6

We seem to trundle along in life missing so much around us that is RIGHT THERE. That is why I chose this painting today. The colors are full of spring and shout "REJOICE" loudly... but you have to truly look to see what it there.

God fills your heart with blessings abundantly... just as He fills each of our lives with all of our needs. Allowing things to get in the way keeps us from seeing our blessings. Sharpen your insight and hopefully clarity will follow. It is there for all of us to seize as our own.

Terry and I traveled to Marble Falls and back yesterday. It is a harry scary trip going down Interstate 35 through Texas. I am thankful to be home. Today in just a few moments, our granddaughter, Lauren, arrives. We have her until a bit after noon today as official Babysitters. Stacey phoned four times yesterday to leave instructions and said they would arrive early to give us more handling instructions. I am beginning to think babies should come to new parents with a manual. It would make it easier on them. I think I still have care down pat...not that old yet!

Seize your blessings today!

Laurie
" I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick: but I will destroy the fat and the strong; I will feed them with judgment." Ezekiel 34:16

THE ADVANCE
Contemporary Art HORSE Equine Oil Daily Painting by Laurie Justus pace

24 x 36 inches of brilliant color!
Contact me if you are interested: Laurie

SOLD! THANK YOU!

"If then your whole body is full of light, with no part of it in darkness, it will be as full of light as when a lamp gives you light with its rays." Luke 11:36

I had a client come by yesterday to pick up two paintings. She is a professional... a doctor, with children, soccer, baseball and a husband and her home. She stays so busy that I worry when I see her that she is burning the candle at both ends. I told her it took me to this age to realize only I could free myself from everything that binds me in my lifestyle. Somewhere a spiritual lights shines in each of us showing us the natural way. Are you ignoring it? True living is effortless and very liberating. Are we there yet?

First, accept yourself as who you are, just as you are. God created you as His beloved and filled you with the spirit of light and love. He gave each of us unique skills and talents to share with others. He gave us imagination and creativity to find the best all around us. Are you doing it?

Freedom is simply a state of mind and heart. It is tied into the state of your spirit and the life that God has given you to live.

Are you free?

Today our travels take us down to Patina to pick up paintings and leave new paintings. I have two shows opening, one at Patina of Marble Falls, and one at the Gordon Phillips Galleries in Bedford, TX. We get to keep the baby tomorrow.... so I am preparing to prepare!

Laurie

“God made him who had no sin to be sin for us, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God.” 2 Corinthians 5:21

SPRING KISSES OF COLOR
Contemporary Floral Flowers Art Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

18 x 24 x 2 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me if you are interested! Laurie

SOLD! Thank you.

"Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord! Hosanna in the highest!" Matthew 21:9

Think back in life to your younger years; although something like this might have happened recently. Has there been a time you were walking into a room and everyone was waiting for you? It could have been your birthday, or a special family dinner and you were running late...or you were a guest speaker... but everyone was excited as you walked through the door. They had been anticipating your arrival and were ready for you.... no different than when Jesus entered Jerusalem during the last week of His earthly life. The crowds were cheering and waving palm branches carried on by their excitement and joy of seeing Jesus.

It would only be days later that He was arrested and crucified. These same people that were so excited about Him coming, turned cold and cheered on again as he was crucified.

Seems like that is life in our society today. We focus so much on something and anticipate it with delight and energy and impatience...and then....we are disappointed. It didn't happen as we planned it out in our thoughts and dreams. Things went wrong or just didn't pan out like we had hoped.

I don't think that was true with Jesus. For me, I believe He knew what was ahead for Him and His total faith in His Father carried Him through to finish what had been started...finish? I don't think so... it gave birth in a new beginning to Christianity. So when things are disappointing, remember it is nothing on the level of what Jesus faced. Trust in God. Praise Him for what is good and for what is there in your life. Continue to greet Him with gladness and praise and He will bring back the life of joy to you again. Joy and happiness is not necessarily what we think it is. We tend to complicate it.


Let Go and Let God breathe life into your dreams.


A post note on my dad yesterday:
I went and saw my Dad yesterday in Bonham, Texas, at the Veterans Home. It was cold and had snowed there earlier in the morning. It was my brother Kirk, my mom, and myself. Dad was in wonderful spirits and he thoroughly enjoyed our outing for lunch. The care group there is full of heart and love for each of their patients. I thank God for every one of them as they now care for the man that cared for me here on earth from the day I was born. I find joy in the knowledge that he has a sense of peace right now despite his Alzheimers. His kind eyes are the same ones that shown with pride at different times in my life, and sparked at me in anger when I strayed from a good path....and his hug remains strong. I thank God for my Dad, with his simple thoughts of only this moment in time. He continues with dignity and faith in his daily existance to set a fine example. God is good and we are truly blessed to have this time with Dad.

Laurie

"You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore." Psalm 16:11

In the Heat of the Night
Contemporary Horse Equine Art Oil Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

36 x 36 x 2 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me if you are interested in this painting. It goes to a Gallery next week for an opening, but it is available for this short weekend directly from me. Laurie

After April 4th, contact Kevin at the Gordon Phillips Gallery, Texas.

"He said to her, "Daughter, your faith has made you well; go in peace and be healed of your disease." Mark 5:34

Sometimes when I start a painting I have to go at it inside out. Too often an artist draws something off and begins to do the "Paint by number" effect. It works so well with realistic art...but somehow I have moved over. I climbed out of the box. For years I strove to control my art work, from realism to slight impressionism. Painting daily has changed much of this. Hence the starting a painting from the inside out. Inside I have the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit brings the creativity to the piece on the canvas. From the inside I allow the energy to flow out my finger tips to the canvas. There is no control by me, only by the spirit and by the light and color on the canvas. Sometimes I start with a basic color of Indian Red; other times I will paint the canvas solid black or turquoise. No different than the beat of music taking you on a journey, the lines and composition in my work will do the same. I paint from the inside out.

It is your turn...

Inside of you are healing powers you cannot even imagine. Inside of you is pure energy and love. If you can stay away from the anger you build in outside situations, you can gather more positive regeneration. Do not let outside forces put you in a negative attitude. You have the choice. Live by the inside out. Take the love you have inside and bring it out into your life and give it to those you touch every day. With this consciousness of giving, you are embracing the fullness of life.

Divine Guidance from the inside out.

Laurie

“My salvation and my honor depend on God ; He is my mighty rock, my refuge.”Psalm 62:7

Desert Rose 1
Contemporary Art Flower Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

16 x 20 inches Oil on Canvas
COMMISSION WORK SOLD

Contact me if you are interested in commission pieces. Laurie

"Those who are attentive to a matter will prosper, and happy are those who trust in the Lord." Proverbs 16:20

Getting in the way...

Yesterday was a day full of fun and company. Little Lauren arrived with Stacey at seven a.m. A few hours of enjoying her and then bundling her up, we had our first Girls Day Out Shopping...but only for two small stops, Target and Gymboree. I have pictures on Stacey's camera and I will do a slide show for tomorrow. Also pictures of everyone coming to see Baby Lauren. She met her Great Aunt Terrie and her Great Uncle Bill.... and then enjoyed her Great Grandpa Ben and her Bampa, Terry. I don't know about the baby, but I am worn out.

Getting in the way... that was the thought that crept into my head this morning. Have you ever sabatoged yourself or see someone else sabatoge themselves? God has so much instore for us and plans for us to prosper. We seem to have the knack of switching directions or making bad choices that make those blessings fade before we can see them. Before us remains a bundle of abundant good. Trusting in Him, I know it is aboslutely the best meant for me. I only need to follow Him and open my hands to receive His blessings and accept my good.

Unfortunately most of the time I do something stupid and submarine the entire project. I limit myself when I do this. I limit my blessings and in the end limit what I can do and give to others.

Is it human nature to want to control so much that we miss out on the best things in front of us?

Today I want you to move forward accepting His gifts and blessings.

YOU ARE WORTHY!

Laurie

“For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for him,” Philippians 1:29

ELEMENTS
Contemporary Art Horse Equine Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

SOLD

18 x 27 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me to purchase: Laurie

"Jesus looked at them and said, "For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible." Mark 10:27

Yesterday was a busy day just getting planning done, but not much painting. I had to order canvas and complete inventories for my paintings for movement from one gallery to another. Morgan surprised me with lunch at Magiano's and we brought lots of left overs home that Terry enjoyed with a bottle of red wind from Rooster Hill. Then it was back to work to paint for an hour and early to bed. We had thunderstorms and cooler weather yesterday and I love it. I was not ready for the warm weather yet... I am a cold weather person...well, not too cold.

Normally I would be in a panic not finishing paintings yesterday...but the day unfolded as God saw fit instead of me. Letting go and letting God has not been one of my stronger points in life. I have to constantly remind myself to the words and as always my mother's voice comes to mind speaking them to me as she has over my years here on earth. God was good when He created Mothers. You can always count on them in your corner and on their brutal but loving honesty.

Setting personal goals is always good. Often God is laughing in soft amusement when we do, but He knows this is something we need to do to find our steps to success in what we do with our lives. Often I find myself having to take a critical leap of faith, totally trusting in Him. I have to let go of all my own expectations and wait on God to reveal His plan which always has unlimited possibilities. My own plans are limiting and by far His are better.

It is for sure I will stumble as I go, but I know I cannot give up. My faith is strong. When the going gets tough, the tough get going with God at their side. The blessings will come... Trust in Him.

It was really hard yesterday morning when I was praying... "Lord tell me what you want me to do today." I dropped my expectations for the day and let Him take the lead.

Will you do that today? Ask God what He wants you to do today.

Laurie

“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9

Found One
Contemporary Art Child in Garden Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

12 x 12 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me to purchase. Perfect for Mother's Day! I can wrap it and mail it directly for you.
Laurie

"Therefore be imitators of God, as beloved children, and live in love, as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us." Ephesians 5:1-2

ME! ME! ME!

TIME FOR ME!

Yesterday we celebrated Ben's Birthday. Ben is Terry's dad. We made shrimp, catfish, Cold Pea Salad, French Fries, and Italian bread with olive oil, tomatoes and cheese. YUMM! Early in the morning, Terry and I made Kolache's for Ben. He loves apricot, and that is what we made. Working side by side, most of the morning in the kitchen, we put together a yummy birthday spread!

THEN, in the afternoon, Terry took me to the gun range where I shot a 22 pistol for the first time. I hit the target and he says I did really well. I shot a box of ammunition; I think that was fifty shots. For a first time I was pretty pleased. I had never done this before.

Humm, what did I mean by "me me me" What does it all mean?

YOU YOU YOU....set some time aside for you today. Do something for yourself, or enjoy a quiet break on your won. Make this your mini retreat and relax knowing you are beloved of God. He loves you NOT for what you do; Not for what you look like; Not for where you live; Not for how you dress or act. There are no conditions placed on His love for you. Respect yourself and the gifts He has given you. Spend some time for you today and charge your batteries!

Once you are back at full power, you have more to offer others. Pass it on....


You are God's beloved.

Laurie

“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Romans 6:23

BURST OF COLOR
Contemporary Horse Equine ART Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace
SOLD...THANK YOU!
18 x 27 inches of astonishing color!
Contact me if you are interested in this painting: Laurie

"But truly God has listened; He has given heed to the words of my prayer." Psalm 66:19

I wondered last night as we drove home from the grocery store, after stopping at FEDEX and Mary's Mail, if there was a full moon last night. The people were driving and acting crazy out on the roads. In the two hours we were out, several ambulances and firetrucks took to the roads to accidents. Every one is in a hurry...every one was doing really rude things. I looked up as we left the grocery store and asked TP, "Is it a full moon" . We were blessed when we got home with a visit from little John David across the street. He lightened our evening with his curiosity and inquisitive nature....so from all of this comes my thought for you this morning.

Last night as the clouds were rushing across the sky you could still see the light from the moon but we could not see the moon. The light was visible and you could see the clouds literally dancing across the sky. Rain is in the forecast; when those dark clouds bring heavy showers, we know above the threatening darkness are skies of blue and the light of the sun.

No matter where you are, or what the weather is, the sky carries the light via the sun or the moon, via the LORD. I pray for you today that the light be a reminder to you no matter what you are experiencing in your life, the light is there for you and for me. It is a connection to Him who is constantly watching over you lighting the way. Light is constant. God is constant. Together we share this spiritual connection.


We are One in His Light.

Laurie

“Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that God has promised to those who love Him.” James 1:12

TEARS OF RAIN
Contemporary ART Horse Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 20 inches Acrylic/Oil Overlays on Canvas
Contact me to purchase: Laurie

"How very good and pleasant it is when kindred live together in unity." Psalm 133:1

Family. Family. Hummm, such a broad subject. We are related by either blood or life to those we call family. We share genes and experiences and we try desperately to stay in harmony with everyone.

I struggle often as I am the peace maker. I cannot stand to have ugliness or meanness in any situation. I do appreciate anger and understand the need to vent, but loud aggressiveness and direct attacks are not appreciated. It goes back to my rose colored glasses. I see the best in everyone all the time.

Every family has elements of ugliness and beauty. Every family is uniquely created to balance harmoniously together. It takes all kinds to do that. If you can this week, take harmony personally and use it daily. Be ready to offer compassion and understanding when it is needed. Depend on God to back you up. He will fill you with His peace for you to pass it on to others.


We are all one in the Spirit.

Laurie

"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God so that you can take your stand against the devil's schemes.” Ephesians 6:10-11

ALERT
Contemporary Horse Equine Art Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace
SOLD
16 x 20 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me to purchase or commission a painting: Laurie

"So God blessed the seventh day and Hallowed it, because on it God rested from all the work that He had done in creation." Genesis 2:3

All during the week when you are working or caring for others I believe you are on Alert. I know I am .... it is the little stress thing that keeps you waiting and watching. You stay on edge and you are alert. You can accomplish things and mark them off your list and hopefully a bit more stress falls away. I can't help but wonder how God was as He created everything... if it was a fabulous creative high, or stress as it began to form around Him. Whatever it was, our world is an outstanding place. His work is mighty.

The seventh day of rest was a day of completion and reflection. This should be a sign to us that this day should be set aside specifically to give thanks to Him and also take time to be aware of what we have each accomplished through out the week. Appreciate all you have done and pat yourself on the back knowing your success came through Him.

From dreams to reality, He is the creator and He walks with you in every endeavor every day.

Laurie

“But blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, whose confidence is in him. He will be like a tree planted by the water that sends out its roots by the stream. It does not fear when heat comes; its leaves are always green. It has no worries in a year of drought and never fails to bear fruit.” Jeremiah 17:7-8

Sharing
Contemporary Art Children in the Garden Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

12 x 12 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me to purchase: Laurie

PERFECT for Mother's Day! I will even wrap it and ship it to your mom.

"O send out your light and your truth; let them lead me; let them bring me to your holy hill and to your dwelling." Psalm 43:3

Spring continues with mild weather and lots of green springing up everywhere. The Dogwoods are in full blooms as are the Bradford Pear Trees. My little peach tree is really blooming.

Thursday I spent the day working on commission pieces and cleaning house. I still have a bit more on the two 16 x 20's that I am painting; they are desert flowers, like cactus flowers. Then it was cleaning house. Terry came home not feeling well again and immediately went to bed in a dark room. I worked on my website until eight and by nine was in bed reading. I am hoping he is better today at work. At least he seemed better this morning. Then the Baby arrived yesterday morning! See the slide show below and Terry took pictures of my swing!

Sharing of your time and your wisdom through your thoughts and actions is a good way to set the day. Each of us has a level of expertise and knowledge that we can readily share with others. Respect grows as small things impact our lives in large ways.

Jesus nurtured us all the way through, showing us the way. His quiet way of teaching touched life after life, family after family. Looking over the generations since, the numbers are astounding. Did you ever think about some of the things that you do and give to others? How wide spread does your expertise and sharing go in this life time and on to others in the future?

Are you leaving footprints?

Laurie

“Like newborn babies, crave pure spiritual milk, so that by it you may grow up in your salvation, now that you have tasted that the Lord is good.” 1 Peter 2:2-3

Bound by the Night
Contemporary Art Horse Equine Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

30 x 30 inches thick brushed oils
Contact me to purchase: Laurie

"By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love
for one another." John 13:35

Well, I forgot to take pictures of my swing yesterday, but I did enjoy sitting in it for several hours. I painted out side yesterday using the new little table and an older extra chair. I actually dozed off laying in the swing surrounded by the twitter of my own birds in the house and the birds outside. HUMMM, I will have to tie a string around my finger to remind me to snap some pictures once the sun comes up.

Yesterday I wrote about healing and breathing in God's presence to be restored. Today I am thinking Party Time to celebrate the coming of SPRING! Just sitting in that darn swing relaxing and taking in the breathtaking colors of the flowers in the hanging baskets and the three blooming bushes I have not planted yet...makes me SMILE and sigh with contentment. Today is a good day to remind you to love and to be loved. God Loves You. His love is so rewarding in multiple ways and we all seem to miss much of it in our busy lives. Slow down today and feel His love. It surrounds you everywhere, all the time.

As you open up your eyes and life to this open 24 hr/7 days a week store of God's love, you will fill your life with it's abundance and begin to share it with others. It will be simple, like a fountain overflowing with water...fresh, cool, love giving water.


Celebrate and partake in the fruit of His Love. Celebrate God. Celebrate Life. Celebrate Love.

Laurie

“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law.” Galatians 5:22-23

MORNING SAIL
Contemporary ART Sail Boat Sunrise Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace and Morgan Pace

20 x 20 inches of unbelievable thick thick paint. I can say that because Morgan painted the basic painting last year and I saw it hanging there and decided it needed some contrast and began playing with it.

SOLD THIS MORNING! THANK YOU!

Contact me if you love it and are interested in price: Laurie

"He grew strong in his faith as he gave glory to God, being fully convinced that God was able to do what he had promised." Romans 4:20-21

Restoring

Restoration is a major area of concern with older prized pieces of art. So many pieces are NOT in galleries or museums where they are cared for to help preserve their beauty.

Terry bought me a porch swing yesterday with a canopy. I have a wood swing out front where we sit and watch all the neighborhood kids play...but the porch swing is on the porch area between the studio and the kitchen. My easel pulls out there and it is the outside extension of my studio and a place I can RESTORE myself. I will take pictures later today as it was dark when we finished putting it together. He also bought blooming plants for me to enjoy and paint outside, setting me up with areas to renew my thoughts. COLOR!!! God's beauty.

How about you? What is being done to restore you? I am not talking about restoring the look and body of you at age 25....but you, the real you inside. There is within you the graciousness of good, love and joy. There is a pureness of your heart that only our Father can see. We all keep it hidden from others not wanting to hurt. We protect it from the elements outside.

There are many things I can write about that you can read and but not feel. Certain things seem to come with age and the major one I have noted is wisdom about who I am. The "I AM" that God made. The pure faith that there are times I have to let go of those squirrels running around in my head, let go of the "what ifs" and slip into His arms and know He can heal me. For those of you that do Yoga or meditate, it is close to that same feeling. If you are able to sit still and quiet your thoughts, be aware of slight quiet noises around you and begin to zone out and only hear and feel your breathing.

That is when you are able to hear Him. That is when He is restoring you.

Divine Love Heals All.

Laurie

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13

Sunlit Poppy
Contemporary Art Floral Flower Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

6 x 6 inch Oil on Watercolor paper. Needs no glass, just slip it into a frame.
PERFECT for Mother's Day and I will wrap it for you. I can even pick up a frame from my framer, The Dutch Art Gallery.

Contact me to purchase. Laurie

"For a thousand years in your sight are like yesterday when it is past, or like a watching the night. You sweep them away; they are like a dream, like grass that is renewed in the morning." Psalm 90:4-5

Last night we brought our birds home from my son's house. He has babysat them for 15 months. I have so missed the joy of their twittering and chirping every day in my home. I have always had birds. Terry carefully placed the large cage in my VW Passat sideways, and we put the stand in the trunk. As we arrived home I gather up the front seat bird food stuff and he slid the cage out of the car. In a sudden flash in the dusk of early night I saw a bird rise from the cage soaring straight up.

I screeched "the birds!" and Terry realized the top of the cage had sprung open. One bird was still in tack, but the other flew the coop. Straight up like a rocket taking off at Cape Kennedy. Immediately the bird flew off to the north toward our pecan tree in the front yard. It is a rather big pecan tree...quite old and very large limbs. I had already decided this had to be Max in flight, for some odd reason as I just didn't think any female would be dumb enough to fly the coop. Max ran straight into a fat limb and pummeted straight down, much faster than his ascent. He hit the top of the truck with a huge THUD and I screamed by that time.

As I raced around the Passat and stepped from the driveway into the grass, I felt my foot hit something and looked down to see Max on the ground not really moving. I had already dropped all my stuff and I gather him up in my hands. He didn't fight me. WAY unnormal for this bird. I stroked him and held him close to my cheek as Terry got us into the door and put the cage up in the garden room. I placed him gently on a lower branch stick in the cage and we began setting things up and watching him. With in an hour he was on a higher branch but not tweeting at all. Still shaking. We went to bed and said a prayer that if he was going to die, let it be swift. Terry promised to look in the morning and if he was feet up, Terry would bury him in the backyard and we would buy another bird. Praise God, both birds woke us singing away this morning. I am hoping there is no traumatic aftermath with Max. Gracie would be so sad to have to break in a new friend. These birds have been together five years. We got them as babies. Annie dog is SOO happy to have them home. She has been going bonkers trying to jump up at the bird cage.

Our birds are home.

There is so much to compare in our lives to Max's flight of freedom. We often see something as THIS IS THE WAY and off we go. No prayer involved. We rocket high with new found freedom with out thinking of course and with out prayer. Realizing something isn't right we turn off that path to head another direction, again with out consulting Him and wham.... we run into that huge limb in front of us. Stops many of us cold in our tracks. And we fall...down.

Live today with pure intentions of new beginnings. Have a clear mind, a willing heart and a broad vision to give God room to work. With His presence in your planning there are not barriers to knock you out cold. "Shoulds " and "Could" are non existant. There are no limiting habits... we can begin again...new in His grace and love.


Max is beginning again, and so can you. Just watch out for those tree limbs.

Laurie

"The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for His name's sake.” Psalm 23:1-3

No 106 Curious
Contemporary Art Horse Daily Painting Oil by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 30 x 2 inches THICK OIL
SOLD...Commissioned by collector in the UK

Contact me for something special for your home or office! Laurie

"I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with
my victorious right hand." Isaiah 41:10

Always present...always with you...God is there. Even yesterday morning at 3:45 when I woke up and Terry was so restless I thought, "I need to get up and work." I distinctly heard HIM say, "Oh no, there is nothing you need to do but rest." I did the normal deep breathing exercising Jan and Arlo taught me to oxygenate the body and began counting backwards from 650 and only made 590 area when I must have gone back to sleep. God sustained me... and kept me right there in bed. I did not get up until 8:00 am. I had blog on auto post, which I have been using on our days off.

I highly recommend the deep breathing from Jan and Arlo. It works when you are feeling anxious as well. Close your eyes and take a slow deep breath filling not only your lungs, but make that tummy expand as far as it will go and then slowly, ever so slowly let the air out. Center yourself in prayer realizing God has provided this for you to relax you. Feel HIM fill you with His love as you take in that air. You will be comforted immediately and strengthened in His love.

What we receive from Him we can give and pass on to others that need direction. We pass on to others His divine love.

Breathe IN....... and Out....


Laurie

“Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience.” Collossians 3:12

No. 108 Urgency
Contemporary Horse Equine Art Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

ALREADY SOLD! THANK YOU!!!!

24 x 36 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me for more information or to purchase: Laurie

"And have them make me a sanctuary, so that I may dwell among them." Exodus 25:8

Mom and I went to Target yesterday. Of course I went with a list. It was a small list to buy Morgan a toothbrush, get some dental floss, some floor cleaner and Kleenex. Somehow I spent $184.00. I haven't been brave enough to unpack the bags, but I know I added Benedryl for Terry, light bulbs, an extension plug, some dish towels on sale, Target brand gallon freezer bags, and I bought some face moisturizer, eye cream, eye shadow....etc. I normally buy Clarins or MAX at Dillards, but that stuff is way expensive. So Mom and I decided to try Botanicals from the Target aisle. That is what is in my bags. I was good, no clothes for Lauren, Stacey or me!

Once home I finished cleaning up and started early dinner for Mom and Terry. I made fresh talapia steamed over lemon slices with fresh tomatoes and fish seasoning, my famous fresh salad with a raspberry vinigrette dressing and brown rice. It was one of those meals where you try and figure out what you want to be your last bite!

For me every day is a celebration of life and of love. BOUNDLESS ENERGY! And I love food, can you tell? When I wake I am normally full of energy, how else would I blog like this every day? This energy is in all of us and multiplies out around us into the world and often results in chaos. In every magazine and on every station on TV we hear about human issues and human nature be it positive or negative. What we rarely hear about or see, is Sacred Nature.

It is so rare on the news to hear good news, or good stories. It is even rarer unless you are on a specific station to be in tune with God's presence in the media. Inner peace begins with God's presence within each of us.

QUIET.

Where in your soul do you find quiet, comfort and safety? In the still of the moment you can feel the indwelling spirit of God. It is here only that you will find your peace and serenity.

Turn off the noise today. Immerse yourself in Him and you will find that peace.

Laurie

"There is deceit in the hearts of those who plot evil, but joy for those who promote peace." Proverbs 12:20

CELEBRATE
Contemporary Horse Equine Art Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

15 x 30 inches Oil on Canvas
Contact me for more information or to purchase: Laurie

Spring Forward
Contemporary Art Horse Oil Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

24 x 36 x 2 inches Oil/Acrylic overlays on canvas. No frame needed.

Contact me to purchase: Laurie

"The Prophet Jeremiah said to them, 'very well: I am going to pray to the Lord your God as you request, and whatever the Lord answers you I will tell you; I will keep nothing back from you.'" Jeremiah 42:4

Yesterday we visited my dad. If you read my blog regularly, you know he has been blessed with Alzheimers and the journey is not a pretty one. He is doing fairly well right now and seems content with his existence despite the FOG he lives in on a daily basis.

Have you ever felt like you were lost in a fog of confusion? Thankfully God comes to the rescue and the path we needed to take was usually right there in front of us; this works unless we were thrashing around trying to do our own thing instead of being patient... you would find me out in left field. The journey back would be harder only because I made it harder.

My dad will stay in his protective fog. The lessons to be learned are obviously for all of us that love him and our path is still not clear. One day it will be clear to my mom, my self and my two brothers. This will be the AHA moment we all wait for. The enlightenment of what is good. Depsite our limited thinking there is good right now and it is in front of us, but the fog lingers yet and the pain of loss is still fresh. Stepping back is hard to do, but it must be done to allow God to work with His divine touch.

Take a deep breath this morning and then release it with JOY. His touch is all around you in your fog of indecision and incompleteness. Only He can complete your life and lift the fog.

Give thanks for God's gift of new opportunities.

Laurie

“For this very reason, make every effort to add to your faith goodness; and to goodness, knowledge; and to knowledge, self-control; and to self-control, perseverance; and to perseverance, godliness; and to godliness, brotherly kindness; and to brotherly kindness, love. For if you possess these qualities in increasing measure, they will keep you from being ineffective and unproductive in your knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 2 Peter 1:5-8

No. 100 Morning Roses
Contemporary Art Flower Rose Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace


12 x 24 inches of super thick oils. This is another piece I painted early winter and have gone back in and added not just background color, but the roses are now dimensional.

Contact me if you are interested. Laurie
For a short time this is offered for $169.00 and I will include shipping in the US. I am off to see my Dad today, so it will be sold to the first email sent.
SOLD SOLD SOLD! Thank you.

Gallery Value is $750.00

"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:16

Yesterday Neal Donald Walsh spoke of "that is does not good to think in any way negatively about yourself. Not even a little good."

Often when I look in the mirror in the morning, like this morning... at 5:00 am, I first notice my eyes and know how they are begging me to climb back into bed. Then I travel down to see the relaxed posture of "Just out of Bed".... and I stand up a bit taller as I stretch out my muscles. Dr Oz on Oprah always addresses the need to stretch as you get up every morning. Makes moving easier. (Okay so you youngsters out there under the age of fifty have absolutely no clue, ... but one day you will.) What a mess with tangled hair and swollen eyes.....the saggy reflection I see is not what I feel. (I would like to say I feel 30, but I am way smarter now than I was then, so let's say I feel like I am forty.)

The mirror reflects not only our physical appearance but our spiritual appearance as well....look
into your eyes.

Breathing deeply and holding air tightly inside, I stretch my arms up trying to reach the 16 ft ceiling. I feel the fullness of the air in my lungs expanding and my body begins to feel alive. The sleepy grouchy look from the mirror fades as I praise God for the new day. My reflection boasts a new glow of being ready to live and give.

Each day we have the uncanny ability to emotionally beat ourselves up. It could be the reflection in the mirror; it could be the cookies we are hiding in the cabinet; it could be something said in conversation the day before. Most of us beat ourselves up over and over again not feeling worthy. Neale suggests our negative thoughts could fill more than one lifetime.

I am suggesting the next time you look in the mirror you see the God-child within. As you embrace His spirit working through you, others will see it as well. Allow your own inner spiritual light out to shine on others. We are indeed kindred spirits....

Shine on in the Spirit of God,

Laurie

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

No 79 A Bit of Wonder
Contemporary Art Horse Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

I reworked this painting so I am sharing it again! Enjoy. It is 24 x 30 inches and has very thick paint.
Contact me if you are interested in buying it: Laurie

This is a close up of the face:

And a close up of some of the brush strokes.

A little more brightness!

"Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth: break forth into joyous song and sing praises." Psalm 98:4

Child like wonder... Child like joy...can you remember being young and everything seemed to either fascinate you or scare you? Most children have a natural gladness with in their soul. We are born with out complicated feelings. Life seems to dictate our emotions after that. I am not sure how you teach a child how to maintain joy and the love of life and learning.

Then, is it possible to retrain ourselves to be joyful? God created each of us. Laughter is the best medicine around. It lowers blood pressure and reduces stress. Singing gives way to expression and helps with breathing and being strong. Praise is the sweetest as it is core of our needs... it is through praising that we grow in our joy.

Joy is being almost done with my work! Joy is almost being caught up! Yesterday I worked for 14 hours finishing up books on LULU for collectors and I painted and did massive bookwork. TODAY I WILL JOYFULLY CLEAN MY HOUSE!

The newest online edition of Western Art Collector is out. It will be on the news stands in about a week. If you are a collector, make sure you pick one up. It has a small article about art sales in Texas with my work and Debbie Lincoln's work....as well as our full page ad...and a sold story in the back. Debbie and I have a show opening in Marble Falls in April.... JOY and ABUNDANCE!!!

Off to begin my wash!

Joyfully,

Laurie

“Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature and escape the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.” 2 Peter 1:4

Stride
Contemporary Art Horse Equine Daily Oil Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

SOLD as it posted! Thank you.
18 x 24 x 2 inches
Contact me to purchase. Laurie

"But I am like a green olive tree in the house of God. I trust in the steadfast
love of God forever and ever." Psalm 52:8

I am going to remind you to count your blessings today. If you must, make a list so you can see them all. Don't leave anything out. God has blessed each of us richly in this life, but most of the time we see what we do not have and what we think we need, instead of thanking Him for what is in our lives at this moment.

Once you realize the great riches you do have, share them. Take time from your day today to phone someone that might need to hear from you. You may need to share comfort or encouragement, or you might need to share hospitality. Open your heart or open your home. Share what has been given to you that others so desperately need.

Take nothing for granted. Staying open and aware you will never miss out on anything in life. God will continue to bless you.

Terry and I face changing dynamics in our household. Please keep our family in prayer as our youngest son returns to school (He already has his BA from St Edwards University) to retool for our changing economic environment. His degree in business does not do much right now. He is returning to study in a medical field in cardiology. We are sharing our hospitality as he moves home to enable him to pay for school and begin his training.
Remember you are showered in His Grace,

Laurie

“Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; He is the faithful God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commands.” Deuteronomy 7:9

No. 94 Running Color
Contemporary Art Horse Equine Daily Painting by Laurie Justus Pace

18 x 24 x 2 inches Acrylic on Canvas
Contact me to purchase: Laurie

"All the paths of the Lord are steadfast love and faithfulness, for those who keep His covenant and His decrees." Psalm 25:10

Terry has taken on the task to help me with exercising. I found when he holds my ankles I can do a better sit up... doesn't hurt my neck as much. Today he had me doing Jack LaLanne exercises that all the house wives did in the fifties, including his mother. Somehow my mother missed that show. I remember Queen for the day, but not watching Jack very often. ANY way, he has me sitting in one of the kitchen chairs, holding on to the chair and keep my feet elevated and bringing my knees up to my chest. I can tolerate about six of these at a time. BURNING in the thighs...and some tummy to get out of the way. It is a start and I am so appreciative of his help right now.

Jack talks about our bodies being God's temple... This is the first show... watch it AFTER you read my blog! Just click the box below.




When we exercise our physical muscles, we are strengthening our bodies. We must do this with our mental skills as well as we get older by doing crossword puzzles or sudoko . The same is true with our faith. Unless we use it and practice it, it begins to fade from our lives. Being around others that believe will help support and encourage your faith. Daily prayer is always a good habit!

These are new photos of Lauren Gracen. Aunt Natalie of NMGPhotography.com does a wonderful job! These are a select few of hundreds!!

God is good... keep the faith alive.

Laurie

“But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,” 1 Peter 3:15