Texas Contemporary Fine Artist Laurie Pace: January 2011

31 January 2011

Abstract Painting 12011 For Sale by Contemporary Texas Artist Laurie Justus Pace, Faith is the foundation of life.

'ABSTRACT PAINTING 12011'

20 x 30 x 2 Acrylic on Canvas

This is available for purchase, Just email me.

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

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As I was painting, I was listening to Ellis Paul singing about the star inside the apple and the little seeds that make up the star. I began to think about how a seed can fall from one of the pine trees or one of the oaks through an acorn onto the ground. The soil surrounds it, comforts it and takes it into its being and it becomes one with the ground and then one with the forest as the seed begins to sprout and grow into a sapling and then a full tree as it's branches stretch skyward to God's warm smile.

Our faith is the same. We start out with just that small seed of hope that God is truly all everyone has celebrated and praised. We allow our faith to grow steadily as we are taken in by others of the faith and nurtured along, developing a strong prayer life and realization that God truly is there for us all the time. We turn our hearts and soul upward to His light.

The tree offers shelter in the forest and our faith offers us shelter from the storms of life. Through our faith we are reassured with His peace and walk in His light.

This blog entry is number 1640. I have blogged for 1640 days. When I first started blogging I had absolutely no idea what would happen as the years went by. Years... how many years is 1640 days? That is four and a half years of blogging. My faith stayed the course and the journey has been a blessing in many ways. SO if you are just starting out blogging with your art work, keep the faith and keep on posting.

Laurie

"Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, ...even if you say to this mountain, "be lifted up and thrown into the sea," it will be done." Matthew 21:21

Mirada Fine Art Denver CO, The Rare Gallery Jackson Hole WY, The Dutch Art Gallery Dallas TX, Our House Gallery El Dorado Hills CA, SR Gallery Hong Kong, Gillian Jones Gallery Ohio,
The Daily Painters, Contemporary Fine Art International, Artists of Texas , Artists of Texas Blog, Daily Painters of Texas Blog

30 January 2011

RIVER BANK Horse Oil Paintings, Abstract Equine Art by Texas Equine Artist Laurie Pace, Guidance from God on the Canvas and in Life

'River Bank'

24 x 30 Oil on Canvas
This painting is available through Mirada Fine Art. Contact Steve.

Contact me for commission work. Laurie

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Yesterday was a made to order perfect day. God answered prayers for a long awaited typical Texas winter day of 74 degrees and sun. It felt marvelous. Terry hauled my small easel outside and I painted on the deck overlooking the pond and Lake Cypress Springs. I finished up this painting and it is available. I am beginning to carve out ideas for the show I will do at Mirada Fine Art this summer.

When you work outside like that, you become aware of all the noises and sounds as the wind blows through the trees and the woodpeckers are noisy in the distance. Red Cardinals flutter through the leaves on the ground seeking worms and the fish are beginning to surface in the pond with the occasional splash. Just standing there gave me the fullness to be still and become in line with God. This spiritual awareness fills me with creativity and new insights on my canvas as well as in my life. When I paint like this I am often in prayer and listening for Him to guide me with wise choices as I move my palette knife across the surface. The path is clear if I am being still. It enable me to step forward in the painting and forward in my life.

Having such an open relationship with God sets up the opportunity to have the same with my husband and close friends. God's guidance in life is available if I open my heart to hear His way.

Laurie

"My Mouth shall speak wisdom; the mediation of my heart shall be understanding." Psalm 49:3

29 January 2011

Dancing in the Leaves SOLD at the Dutch Art Gallery. Equine Art Horse Oil Painting by Texas Contemporay Artist Laurie Pace, "My Peace be with you." Pray for peace around the world.

'Dancing In The Leaves'

30 x 40 Oil on Canvas

SOLD at the Dutch Art Gallery on Friday! Thank you.
Pam left a message on my phone yesterday that Dancing in the Leaves had a new home! I am thrilled and pray that the new owners enjoy the energy and colors in this dynamic painting.
God is good. All the time, God is good.

For your own Commissioned painting, Contact me. Laurie

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We arrived home late yesterday afternoon. Paddy was happy to see as was Ms Vicki. I love coming home to the trees and the quiet of the lake. Yes we are pretty far out here, but I love it.

We had lunch with my Dad and brother Bill yesterday and enjoyed catfish and hush puppies. For those of you from the north, hush puppies are little corn breads in spheres that are deep fried. Yeah, it was all off of our diet... we didn't eat much. I ate one hush puppy and my fish and LOTS of salad. We also hit WHOLE FOODS for organic vegetables, fruit, tilapia, salmon, and my lactose free Horizon Milk. Can't buy it anywhere local. Bummer... so two coolers handled the fish, milks, yogurts and cheese. Also picked up my favorite nitrate free German Summer Sausage. They are forecasting more snow and sleet on Tuesday. We already slated to make sweet potato soup with German Summer sausage and onions.
Why is my mind stuck on food? Probably because we didn't really eat when we got home last night and I am starving right now!... Fast blog and in to make some scrambled eggs rolled in tortillas.

World news... I feel like I missed so much when I sat down last night and watched the rioting in Egypt. It is world away and yet we should recognize the dominoes that may fall around us from what is happening around the world. We cannot physically do one thing to affect what is happening in Egypt, but we can express pure love and pray for world peace. Many times in the bible when dissension occurred, Jesus would say, "Peace be with you" . When you feel overwhelmed or moved to worry with what is happening in the world, we must learn to repeat as a mantra, PEACE BE WITH YOU.

Keep the peace in your heart and your home. Let the love light from this shine into the lives of other you know. His Peace is available to anyone that is ready to believe. It is only through calm thinking that we can truly grasp situations around us as they unfold. Bless others with the light of your inner peace. Pass it on to others in need.

Laurie

"Jesus came and stood among them and said, 'Peace be with you." John 20:26

28 January 2011

Painted Pony in Progress Horse Oil Painting by Texas Artist Laurie Pace, Comfort of God is Constant

"Continuing Painted Pony'

24 x 30 Oil on Canvas
In Progress

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

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We are on our way home today... but Dallas has many stops. Asel Art, Whole Foods, visiting my parents, stopping by Northpark, and then finally heading east to home.

We have really enjoyed our visit to the grand-baby's house. She rules the roost now as she is already in the terrible twos. She is very bright and knows all her colors, her animals and their sounds, and actually reads about 100 words... at age 23 months. She will melt down when we leave. She is a Bampa's little girl all the way through.

When you are little like the Tink, you are comforted by your parents, your grandparents, your favorite blanket or toy... by your bed and your pillow. We pray with her at night and at meals. We sing about Jesus and God all through the day... and we are slowly bringing her to realize the constant presence of God in her life.

His comfort is there for you too. Think of being cold on this winter's day...and feeling the sudden warmth from a fire or a blanket. That is God as He provides for you. Feel the comfort of His love and presence in your life. While everything around you in this world is temporary, God is constant. God is eternal. No matter what is ahead of you, know you can count of the comfort of God.

Stop by JustPlainSweet for Stacey Beth's latest Greatest Just Plain Sweet shopping find.

Laurie

Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I fear no evil; for you are with me.--Psalm 23:4

27 January 2011

Winter Solstice SOLD! Horse Oil Paintings by Laurie Pace, Just say NO when you need to.

'Winter Solstice'

30 x 40 Inches Oil on Canvas
SOLD! Thank you!

Contact me for commission work. Laurie

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We are at the Tink's house. We drove to Louisville to take Morgan to Birthday lunch and then to Tink's house. SHE IS WELL.. no runny noses or anything. We are enjoying the love! It is a short trip. Tomorrow to Asel Art and Whole Foods and then homeward bound.

This painting was adjusted with some mauve purple tones and it is now sold and will be picked up by the new owner here in Dallas area. I have the painting with me at Stacey's house.

We just got through reading the NO NO NO YES YES YES book. I think it is a must read for everyone. NO NO NO you do not pull the cat's tail. Yes Yes yes you pet the cat. I can see a Christian version coming out with some pretty cute illustrations of No No No and Yes Yes yes. Funny thing is we do know right from wrong and we do know when we are not making the best choice and often we do it anyway. But Why?

May your Thursday be filled with joy... I think Stacey blogged Birthday Cupcakes for Morgan. Check it out at JUST PLAIN SWEET.

Laurie
“Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up.” - James 4:10

26 January 2011

Commissioned Painting First Communion, Figurative Painting by Texas Artist Laurie Pace, Tiger Bark and Two Year Olds, Wait upon the Lord

'First Communion'

18 x 24 Oil on Canvas
Commission SOLD

I am finishing this one up, working on the lighter skin tones. I started it last year and found it today in a box. It was suppose to be there before Christmas...but it will make it in the next few weeks.

Contact me for Commission work. Laurie

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Stacey told me Tink was a very impatient little girl. Well you would be as well if you were getting ready to turn age two. Those Terrible Twos have set in on our precious Granddaughter. Stacey was more than a handful as a child and if she can expect 10 times more than she gave me... look out for one impatient stubborn little Tinkerbelle. This was her first of whatever candy this is. Surprised me because Stacey and Larry are very careful what they give her to eat.

How is your patience? Are you an easy 'waiter' or a nervous pacing 'waiter'? God often calls upon us to wait on things. We seem to think they should be NOW and not later. It is truly hard to stop and wait for anything these days. Living in the country does slow you down a bit and I have learned to relax and not press issues. If we wait on things we are often clued into a deeper meaning of what is going on around us. Awareness comes with the waiting. Stay open and wait upon the Lord. Relax and breathe and be steady. Affirm to Him that you are indeed waiting. While you are waiting spend some time reaffirming the greatness He has provided for you and acknowledge your trust in Him for the right cue as to when to proceed and what to do. Be confident He knows and He will light the way. True joy is often found in these 'waiting moments' or 'waiting hours'. Relax give yourself a break today. Put God back in charge.

It works in most cases, but maybe not always with a two year old. Her Mother made TIGER BARK on her blog... JUSTPLAINSWEET. Check it out. Looks down right yummy. That must be what little two year old girls are made out of... Tiger Bark.

(My impatience is waiting for the next fabulous Laura Frantz book to be published! I am rereading her second book right now...she is an incredible author and I highly recommend her books.)

Laurie

"For the Lord is a God of Justice; blessed are those who wait for him." Isaiah 30:18.

25 January 2011

In Progress Cowboy Painting, Western Art Paintings by Texas Artist Laurie Pace, Doing Good to All and do it with Heart

In Progress...
Still not finished but will begin working on this one in the evenings.

Contact me for Commission work. Laurie

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It was a computer day yesterday as I just about finished the new www.artistsoftexas.org site. Not every page is changed visually but all the meta descriptions are added and the artists that sent me information and new images got an overhaul on their bio page. This took almost 10 days to get to this point but from here forward I can change out things little by little.

Have you ever been confronted with a job that seemed endless? How do you set your frame of mind for it? Do you wallow around thinking, "I will never finish this, why should I even start it?" or does your mind go, "Okay, one step at a time here... and one day it will be done."

That is how I urge you to look at your life all the time. Do not be drug down by those distant faraway desires or by overwhelming work. Take your life ONE DAY AT A TIME. Do not borrow trouble or failure that truly does not exist. Live this moment and live it fully. Do it with gusto...everything. Sing with all your heart, clean your house with all your heart; Be energized and let God's light shine!

She finally posted the pound cake... check out Just Plain Sweet.

Laurie

“[Doing Good to All] Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin, you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently. But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.” - Galatians 6:1

24 January 2011

No name yet! Progress Horse Oil Paintings by Texas Artist Laurie Pace, What is Compassion to you?

IN PROGRESS NO NAME YET!

24 x 30 Oil on Canvas

I guess it is a wait and see proposal! Stay tuned.

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

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It was a beautiful sunrise yesterday. Then the skies grew cloudy while we were in church and cold rain was falling in late afternoon. We had hopes for a nice long walk yesterday but that did not happen.

Jace came and painted with me for about two hours and we jammed on the guitars. He is doing so well and has such a nice voice when he sings. He is NOT your typical 15 almost 16 year old. So it was a full Sunday with church, lessons and time with Terry. LOTS of good food on our "eat more fresh veggies" diet. Finally realized I can eat as much as I want to eat of the foods that are healthy... and when I do I do not crave the bad stuff, like red meat, bread etc. As of today I have lost 18 pounds since the end of August. My clothes fit again. As the good Sheriff said today after church... getting rid of the tummy makes it easier to bend over and pick things up or tie your shoes. He is right.

What does Compassion mean for you? If you google it you find several ways to consider it. First as a virtue in which empathy and sympathy tie directly into love and connecting together with others. The deep feeling of compassion takes one to a level beyond empathy... it is level to take action. Do to others what you would have them do to you. Another view or definition is to suffer together through something with someone.

In Corinthians we find God to be the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort. In this instance you must realize no matter what you are wading through right now (wading or waiting) that you will not be overcome if you believe, because God's love will comfort you and fill you. His goodness and love for you is boundless and never ending. New beginnings are ours for the taking, but they require a commitment of the heart and soul to God. Whatever happened yesterday is forever washed from you and transformed by His abundant love for you. Believe and you will experience how truly great His compassion is.

Stacey Beth was busy yesterday baking an old family favorite. Make sure you stop by JUST PLAIN SWEET and take a peek. She is shipping me one of these this week too! You might order one yourself. You will not be disappointed.

Laurie

"Deep in my heart I say, "The Lord is all I need; I can depend on him!" The lord is kind to everyone who trust and obeys Him. " Lamentations 3:24-25.

23 January 2011

Snow Dance Wild Horse Oil Painting with Very Thick Paint and a Palette Knife by Texas Artist Laurie Pace, Ask and it Will be Given to You.

'Snow Dance'

18 x 24 Oil on Canvas

This is the painting for you if you like things carved out of thick thick paint.

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

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Really enjoyed playing in the paint on this one. Have no idea if it will even appeal to a heart or not, but it was an enjoyable journey of paint.

I spent most of yesterday afternoon with wet feet (54 degrees outside) as we began power washing the deck the hot tub use to live on. This is going to take a bit of work. Warmer weather would be better. I can see some use of having a power washer...windows, eaves, cars etc. Father's Day is ahead of us.

Stuck morning yesterday morning. I was up early working on the new www.artistsoftexas.org site. It is not uploaded yet and is about 10 days from the upload. Began to get burn out I guess. I was tired of cold weather, being sick and just in a complaining mood. VERY unusual for me that wears rose colored glasses. The AOT site is totally volunteer by some really great women, Debbie Lincoln, Judy Mackey, Vernita Bridges Hoyt and Kay Wyne. One month I put in 80-120 hours and other months maybe 40-80. What gets me in a tither goes back to that same old phrase, you can lead a horse to water but you cannot make him drink it. Here we are rebuilding the site with meta content and description and reconstructing the pages to be updated with new artwork...and you send out a mass email three times saying, "Send me these three things." and you only hear from 1/3 of the artists. Debbie lectures me almost daily. "You have to let it go. You cannot do it for them. They have to participate in their own success to make this work."

Yes, I was one of THOSE mothers. I am one of THOSE people that want it to work for everyone. I will go the extra mile. Somehow this morning the message got through my thick head. If they do not do this journey and participate, they will not grow and learn from it. So I have about 25 more artists that sent me their info. I will finish their pages this week and reload the site. Those that didn't bother to send the requested information will not be updated.

So I tell you my friend, when it concerns your life, pray first and then act upon it. God gives us the power and energy to do what needs to be done to complete our journey. We have to tough it out sometimes and from the toughing days we grow even stronger. Don't be afraid to walk ahead with Him and trust because He will light the way.

We missed our youngest son's birthday in Dallas last night. We were not quite to the EAT and TRAVEL point to make the trip. Brother Kirk shot this video for us. Happy Early Birthday Morgan... you are not 30 yet!

Laurie
“[Ask, Seek, Knock] “Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.” - Matthew 7:7-8

22 January 2011

Racing the Sun Across Horse Oil Paintings by Texas Artist Laurie Pace, Sharing God's Love and do not forget Just Plain Sweet!

'Racing The Sun Across'

20 x 30 Oil on Canvas

Available

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Sharing the love. What does it mean to you? When God in His creative mode used His wisdom and power and love to create the universe, He did this for you and me. He wanted to share His love with someone. As His mind began to expand with the thought of creating a being to love, He began His plan creating the moon, the sun, the stars and this world. He carefully carved out every detail in each formation and creation. He made sure we had exactly what we needed to live and as He then created man, He created him in His own image....with a heart and mind to accept that love and be able to love back.

Open your heart to God today. Give back some to Him who has given it all to you.

Is there a friend or neighbor, a child, or a spouse, that you need to call or go visit? You may be one of the few people in their life that can reach them right now with pure love and understanding.

We took a walk yesterday and went over to visit our neighbors on the pond. Tim is building a new dock on his end. We were late in 'arriving' as Tim has been working on the dock in the cold daily for the past week. We should have been there to help, but until now, we were under the weather. He almost has it totally complete. Neighbors are blessings and we are truly blessed to have them so close.

Stacey Beth posted some delicious Macadamian Nut Cookies yesterday. I should have linked to it then. Go visit JUST PLAIN SWEET and take notes on the recipe.

Laurie

"Let them all praise the name of the Lord! He commanded, and they were created." Psalm 148:5

21 January 2011

Beginnings of Catching up in Progress Horse OIl Painting by Laurie Pace

'Catching Up'

20 x 30 x 2 Oil on Canvas

In Progress but this is
Available

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It got really really cold again and we saw some light sleet late yesterday. Thank goodness today's high is in the forties! Power is holding and for that I am grateful.

I started this painting and worked on it most of yesterday. Had the heaters going in the studio and classical music playing. The smells from the kitchen were extraordinary. (Did I spell that right?) Terry was cooking while I was painting. We dined on Salmon, baked potato and fresh carrots and mushrooms. We spent the rest of the evening sprawled in front of the fire playing backgammon.

Bliss.

The only thing that would have rounded it out would have been something from Stacey Beth's kitchen. (Just Plain Sweet) God is good and I am ever thankful for the hours of yesterday and look forward to His gift of today.

Laurie

“[Trials and Temptations] Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance.” - James 1:2-3

20 January 2011

'Sunset Sail'

6 x 6 Oil on Canvas
SOLD

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I always thought of myself as a patient person. I may have to reevaluate that self opinion. On our way to Bonham yesterday I realized that life was like the two lane road we were on. Sometimes you get behind a tractor in the country and you can't pass for almost a mile... and then you get around the tractor and you just get up to the speed limit to get behind a truck hauling hay traveling at half the speed limit. You wait and watch for a safe time to pass him because there is too much danger passing in a no-passing zone. You could kill yourself and everyone else around you. Carefully you pass the hay truck and travel about 20 miles and find yourself behind a long line of semi trucks trying to change gears going up a hill. Now what?

Our lives are no different. We are on a journey that God started us out on. There are things we encounter on this journey not at all different from the tractor or the hay truck. When we encounter obstacles in life we usually take off another direction. If you actually turn off that two lane road that God set you out on, you end up in places undiscovered, places you may not suppose to be. How long does it take you to figure it out before you find a small road back to the original road and pick up the journey to your destination? When we make the individual choice to take another direction, we sure should pray about it first. Some of those trips are costly emotionally, physically and financially. They ALWAYS affect those that love us and the repercussions hang around for years.

Be PATIENT my friend... slow down and talk to God about things before pulling out and passing that line of trucks or turning off a side road to find another way.

Check JUST PLAIN SWEET for a great Kitchen Tip of the day, The CLEAN UP BOWL.

Laurie

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.” - Matthew 7:12

19 January 2011

"Purple Rain" Horse Oil Paintings by Texas Artist Laurie Pace, Read about White Bliss, Fainting, What to do when someone faints and Stacey Beth's pineapple Cobbler from Just Plain Sweet.

'Purple Rain'

30 x 30 Oil on Canvas

SOLD

Contact me for commission work. Laurie

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White Bliss is the word I gave to the feeling of coming out of my 'faint' on Sunday morning at one a.m.
I think I told you that I fainted while I was sick and woke up half in the bathroom and half in the bedroom on a pillow with Terry sitting at my head watching me. Fortunately he caught me as I went down. As I began to wake from this white realm I was resting in, I did not want to come out of it...it was quiet, serene, very comfortable and my stomach was not hurting. I closed my eyes shut and began to retreat back and I stretched and realized I was not on a cloud but on the floor with the door jam in my back. Still the white bliss called to me and I closed my eyes as the thoughts began to resurface, I remembered I was sick and what had happened. I truly fought to wake up then and he helped me to bed.

It was a clear cut case of being low on electrolytes, being sick and having chills and fever. I just had never fainted before in my life. As the days have passed I decided I would not have known what to do had it been him. I know I could not have caught him as easily as he caught me... he would have fallen on top of me and would have been passed out with me on bottom. He said he caught me and just eased me down on the floor and debated trying to pull me over to the bed to lift me in, but his stomach was rolling and he thought it wise to leave me where I was. I googled what to do for fainting and found what we were taught in junior high school. The list is here:

Catch them before they fall if possible. Look for signs of sweating or shaking or looking like a ghost. (theoretically I was shaking and sweating.)
Think back to grade school and the Seven Up game. Heads Down and Thumbs Up. In this case you want the head of the fainter lower than the heart - and the legs raised up about a foot.
Turn the person's head to the side so they do not gag on their tongue.
Loosen any tight clothing.
Apply moist towels to the person's face and neck.
Cover the person in a medium weight blanket if they are shivering.
No slapping or shaking the fainter.

It was good to read this so I can tuck it away if I need it. Had not thought about it since health in 7th grade.

I believe God chose to wrap me in my white bliss at that moment because I felt so awful. It is something I will remember as a wonderful restful place. I guess I thought to write about it this morning because Terry is walking around the house in his dad's bathrobe. (Most of you know we lost his dad last Sept 2010). Terry is wrapped in his daddy's love through that robe. It took him through this illness feeling his own earthly father's comfort from that robe.

We are happy to be running at about 80% this morning and in the next few days at 100%. Thank you for all the kind emails and prayers as we healed.

Visit JUST PLAIN SWEET for the easiest homemade pineapple cobbler... yummmm. Save some for me!

Laurie

“No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted, he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.” - 1 Corinthians 10:13

18 January 2011

Blooms Flower Painting by Texas Artist Laurie Justus Pace

'Blooms'

30 x 20 Oil on Canvas
SOLD

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

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As we were lying in bed last night still on the mend from bad food, we began to count blessings. Then we got off track of blessings on to God's grace. That too is a blessing. I believe God's grace is unconditional for all of us, but if we are not connected to Him to accept it, we never fully receive it.

Did you realize that today this moment "YOU ARE ACCEPTED" ? You are accepted just as you are. You are cherished and loved with out condition. God's grace is yours just as it is mine. It is His love for you and for me.

When we become headstrong and take things into our control we head off on our own ignoring God and from this comes bad choices and often sin. We are always given the freedom to choose. when we do not take the 'graceful' path we often end up miserable and lost trying to get back so much of what we have lost. We begin again, seeking His Grace.

Stop by JUST PLAIN SWEET and read the latest from Stacey Beth with tidbits for the kitchen.

Laurie
Jesus answered, "I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me." (NIV) John 14:6

17 January 2011

Oil Horse Paintings by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

Horse

30 x 30

Oil on Canvas

SOLD

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

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Still writing from my laptop in bed. Hoping to gain enough strength to take a shower after this. Whatever hit the two of us, hit us really hard. Terry had a rough night. Hopefully today we will start eating and gaining back some energy.

Promise to return to normal blogging in the next few days. Obviously this is going to be a slow process.

MAKE SURE YOU VISIT STACEY"S BLOG today for an awesome Choc Chip Recipe. I like softer cookies so I use more brown sugar and less white sugar. That is the secret to soft and chewy!
http://justplainsweetforyou.blogspot.com

Laurie

“Do everything without grumbling or arguing, so that you may become blameless and pure, “children of God without fault in a warped and crooked generation.” Then you will shine among them like stars in the sky as you hold firmly to the word of life. And then I will be able to boast on the day of Christ that I did not run or labor in vain.” - Philippians 2:14-16

16 January 2011

Four Black Horses Contemporary Horse Oil Paintings by Laurie Pace

Four Black Horses

24 x 36 inches Oil on Canvas

SOLD

I will not be posting for a few days. We seem to have a bit of food poisoning following our trip to Dallas and eating at a local deli. I say that because this affected my mom, brother and Terry and I. It was the only food we ate that day and we were sick all yesterday, all last night and still today.

As soon as I can return to painting and posting I will. I did see Stacey listed a really neat gadget on her blog today: http://justplainsweetforyou.blogspot.com

Laurie

“So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.” - Galatians 5:16

15 January 2011

Hearts for Hospice Mt Pleasant Charity Ball. Heart Painting and Music Painting on Auction to raise funds for Cypress Basin Hospice. Paintings by Laurie Pace

'Hearts for Hospice'

10 x 10 Mixed Media on Canvas
Click here to Contact to place a silent auction bid.
Make sure you mention HEART PAINTING for Cypress Basin Hospice.

Will explain below the cause!

Contact me to commission a set of hearts for your sweetie for Valentines Day. Laurie

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Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

This is the other donated painting for the auction. It is a live auction but if you want to place a bid, contact Karen. Tell her in the email it is for the music painting. This painting includes a beautiful custom frame.

Those of you that follow my blog know that Hospice means much to us after the death of my father-in-law Ben Pace. Hospice is no longer just care at the end in the last six weeks of life. Hospice today is care for all levels of need and is in place for the comfort of the patient at all times. Hospice is family based for quality end of life care that provides compassion, dignity, independence and respect. Many patients go on Hospice that provides care once or twice a week and stay at that level until the need arises to go to 24 hour care.

Terry and I support this beautiful transition that is available for families dealing with life limiting illness that strike their loved ones. His father Ben was a picture of health and once his breathing issues surfaced, it was only about a year longer that he lived and the last two months were a nightmare for him.

Here is a bit of information about this specific event in Mt Pleasant Texas. It is an honor to be apart of this fundraiser.

Hearts for Hospice Ball

“The social event of the year for this part of Northeast Texas”, is how one guest describes the most successful fundraiser for Cypress Basin Hospice. This “Black Tie Optional” event is held on the first Saturday in February and is presented by an all volunteer

group of individuals from the communities served by the Cypress Basin Hospice. Mark Scirto, a well known Tyler celebrity, and meteorologist serves as the Master of Ceremonies. The prestigious evening includes a catered meal, action packed silent and live auctions, and live music from the “Grateful Geezers”, a Houston band who has performed at this event since 2006. Tickets can be purchased through the Cypress Basin Hospice office after January 1st. Don't delay as these tickets sell out fast; corporate sponsorships are also available.

Call us at 903-577-1510 for more information.

DO NOT FORGET to stop by and visit: http://justplainsweetforyou.blogspot.com. My daughter Stacey Beth has her yummy snickerdoodle recipe up today. Makes me hungry for a cup of hot tea and some of her snickerdoodles. Love you Stacey Beth!

Laurie

“Whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister, whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen. And he has given us this command: Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and sister.” - 1 John 4:20-21

14 January 2011

Evening Dahlia Finished! Flower Paintings, Floral artwork by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

'Evening Dahlia'

20 x 20 Oil on Canvas
Available

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

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Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

It turned out rather peaceful as I finished it up. I have a few more touch ups and then in a few weeks some varnish, but it is done and available. It was a refreshing experience to just paint and feel like I was on a path toward a vision. Often in contemporary abstract pieces the painting evolves totally on its own and you begin to see paths to follow as you paint. With a composition like this you begin with a sketch on the canvas and proceeding with paint. There is a comfort there knowing the direction is before you and the map is laid out for the journey.

We must be confident the grace of God supports us at all time. We are given life enriching opportunities every single day. If we are open to God, we are open to recognize those moments and choices and we are naturally drawn to the good in life. As you accept these blessings it becomes your responsibility to bless others. That my friend, is a gift to share. Through compassion and experience you are able to shine the light of God's love to others.

Now exciting news as I share something special with you. My daughter Stacey Beth is finally getting her blog up and running and soon her website to follow. She has had an incredible journey from a high schooler who could not find her way around the kitchen, to becoming quite a baker. The genes were there through her German ancestry as I have all my grandmother's recipes for Cinnamon Rolls, to home made egg noodles on to many of our family favorite dishes. Stacey would like to do this every day and her goal is to build her business on sharing her secrets in the kitchen and some of her tried and true recipes. Visit her site to see the yummie brownies she baked and follow her journey in the kitchen with JUST PLAIN SWEET.

Artist Hall Groat was kind enough to allow Stacey to use one of his fabulous delicacies (paintings) on her header. Thank you Hall! This is his website... and this is his blog.

Laurie

"And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work." 2 Corinthians 9:8

13 January 2011

Progress of Evening Dahlias, Flower Paintings by Laurie Pace

'Progress of Evening Dahlias'

20 x 20 Oil on Canvas

Available

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

My Blog

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Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

The snow is still on the ground. We ventured into the store yesterday to pick up some chili meat so Terry could make some chili. I taught piano and then later spent the evening working on this painting above. I have a close to final picture for tomorrow morning to share as well...but step by step is always good.
Where do you find peace in your life? At night when I wake up and can't go immediately back to sleep I begin to pray. I pray for every one on our prayer list; or I pray for blessings for each person I can remember to bless; or I do my prayer beads quietly in the dark. This is a time of blessed peace and quiet. Terry is always asleep when I am awake, and altho I do not want to necessarily be awake, I always praise God during this time because I am not interrupted by life happening around me. I have never been bothered by those times at night because I figure He has me awake for a reason.

Another place I find peace is when I am lost in painting a composition that is detailed. Usually there is quieter music going, or now a fire in the fire place crackling. It is a time I can reconnect to peace and to quiet and paint on auto pilot and allow my inside voice to commune and talk with God. It is here I find a centering in my life.

Now think about yourself. Where can you tuck yourself in to find a quiet moment? This is where you want to not think about anything except you and God. As you begin to breathe, close your eyes and allow your lungs to fill to maximum capacity and hold that air in for just a few seconds...and then slowly release it allowing all of your troubles and issues to leave your body. The second breath you take imagine you are taking in all of God's love, peace, strength and confidence. As all this new oxygen releases itself in your body you will feel the deep refreshing feeling that comes from this first step of learning to release it all to God. Continue to breathe and feel a oneness with Him. If you can, sit and breath slowly in and out and if you can't pray, just listen to the inside of your soul blocking out all the external noise around you. When you are ready to get up, you will find yourself at peace and energized to step back into your world.

Be centered in God.
Laurie

This is one of my favorite verses:

"Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

12 January 2011

Spring Dahlia in Progress, Flower paintings by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

'Spring Dahlia in Progress'

20 x 20 Oil on Canvas

Available...

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

My Blog

My Website
Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

It was way to cold to work in the studio yesterday. It never got above 24 degrees outside and I have six floor to ceiling windows and a large glass door that are on the northwest side of the house. BRR. So I chose to paint on my small easel in the den. Have not been able to convince Terry to build a fire but maybe he will change his mind today.

He is already out early this morning walking Paddy the dog. I declined the invitation to join them as right now it is 16 degrees outside. I am not sure I seek warmth and comfort because it is so cold outside, or if that is just part of being human. What physical things would make you comfortable right now? I am smiling at my warm fuzzy slippers and my big furry robe. If I were a coffee drinker I would have a cup of that steaming in my hands....maybe I will make some hot tea. Let's add a roaring fire for a comforting thought this morning and maybe breakfast with mom. That sounds even better.

We all have our own ideas of comfort food and comfort situations. We have something even better in the comfort of God in our lives. He is a constant reassurance of light and love in our lives. No matter what we face in life He is more than any comfort ideas you can dream up. Turning to God in prayer you will true love and comfort. He will take you into His arms and hold you tightly enfolding you close to His heart. God's love endures forever.

Laurie
"I am with you always, to the end of the age." Matthew 28:20

11 January 2011

Flowers of the Sun Sunflower Painting, Yellow Sunflowers, By Texas Artist Laurie Pace

'Flowers of the Sun 2'

36 x 36 Oil on Canvas

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

My Blog

My Website
Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

The snow continued yesterday. Terry and I took Paddy out for about a mile walk and my fingers were frozen despite my gloves. Even my feet were a bit cold. The day was spent doing washing and cleaning up wet floors between Terry and the dog. BUT all the wash is done and clean sheets were on the bed last night. We even added the heated mattress pad under the sheets. Stacey bought it for me three years ago when I had the flu and I was home alone with high fever, chills and NO HEAT in the house. We had electrical power but our gas heat was out. We have not used it since but last night we took a vote and it was 2 to nothing to put it on today.

Sheriff Paul called last night to see if we were all right and if needed anything. That was sweet. We did not try to go out at all because it simply was not necessary. We stayed tightly tucked in the house and in the afternoon I watched THREE episodes of Little House on the Prairie. Terry watched them with me. I feel asleep on his lap with him stroking my hair. Cozy warm for sure.

We may try to make it into town today. It is suppose to warm up so the snow will melt. Wish I could push it all into the pond. We are so low on water in the pond.

I remembered a story from my grandmother about a rabbit caught in a wood fenced yard. He had burrowed in and forgot where he came in. Someone let the dog out and the rabbit was terrified to be found and literally raced in circles around the fence convinced he was doomed to die as the dog's next meal. Finally he spotted the small hole... his only escape route. He hopped hard toward the hole and disappeared through it. The dog was laying up on the porch. He had better sense than to chase the silly rabbit.

Sometimes our mind is like that rabbit. (I usually refer to squirrels in my head...but we will do rabbits today.) Our mind literally gets trapped in a fear complex of impending doom as we try to analyze and not be paralyzed by what is to come. HURRY HURRY HURRY... there is an answer. We think over the problem, forward, backwards and sideways making sure we have covered every detail we can think of to deal with it. No freedom will come from this. The only freedom comes from giving it up to God. We have to surrender this control because we cling to it tightly every day. Trusting Him to show us the way and allowing our heart to be lead by Him is so much better than us racing around dragging our heart behind us. God is infinite in His wisdom and He already knows what is to be. It was written long ago. Be assured that good will come to you through all situations and remember to give thanks for all that you have right now. Do not worry about the morrow, it will come soon enough.

Laurie

"I love the Lord, because he has heard my voice and my supplications." Psalm 116:1

10 January 2011

Dancing in the Moonlight, Horse Paintings, Abstract Equine Art by Laurie Justus Pace

'The Dance'

24 x 24 Oil on Canvas

SOLD

Contact me to purchase by check or paypal. Laurie

My Blog

My Website Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

The day yesterday was full of snow. So I am going to share a slide show of God's glory in Texas, a sight rarely seen. We must have had 8-10 inches of snow.

It is a big thing in this area of Texas to even get one inch a year, so to get a full day of snow and have this much on the ground and it is in the mid twenties outside... wahoo, time to build a snowman...

HONEY are you awake yet?

Laurie

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” - Matthew 6:19-21

09 January 2011

Orange Sneakers, Tennis Shoe Painting from 2005 by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

24 x 30 Oil on Canvas
SOLD back in 2005 and live in LA!
Had to grab something from the archive...
Let it snow let it snow let it snow.

Contact me for commission work. Laurie

My Blog

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Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

Too cold to stick my nose out the window... it is still dark outside. I still have power but blogging quickly as the wind is strong.

The kids came Friday and Saturday but everyone cleared out by five.... heading back to Dallas before the winter storm was breaking. They have sleet this morning. We survived a mean game of Monopoly that Terry won, and wonderful Ribs in beef and pork that Justin made and grilled veggies... of which th sweet potatoes were my favorite. I made a huge salad. We call my salads the OMA salads. They are well known and loved. I have everything in them from raw corn to oranges, raisins, cantaloupe, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, mushrooms etc. Then either a homemade dressing or a balsamic Raspberry vinaigrette. Dessert was another apple crumble with my grandmother's crumb recipe on top of granny smith green apples. January celebration of family and it was wonderful.

I do have pictures but have not emptied my camera.

I had an email from Jasmine Becket Griffith and she caught me up on her twitter and facebook stuff. I emailed her back telling her that her work is an icon in our art history now. Her work will be written about and talked about. She paints with a passion and her life has been shaped and embraced by her art. If you have not seen Jasmine's work... you should. She is a one and only.

What you see in her work, and I hope in my work, is a passion that we love what we paint. We follow a passion and it fills us. Are you doing what you love? If you say no, it is time to reevaluate your life and your direction in life. Things are out of balance and you are not in the right place doing the right thing. I cannot tell you how to develop your divine purpose. Something speaks to you from deep in your heart and soul and feeds you motivating you with energy to go forward and find your purpose and discover your true calling. Do not let your inner thoughts and negativity keep you from your dream. The perfect path awaits you, but do you have the inner courage to follow the path?

Laurie

"Do you believe that I am able to do this?" They said to him, "Yes, Lord." Matthew 9:28

08 January 2011

The River Horse Paintings by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

'The River'

24 x 30 Oil on Canvas

SOLD

My Blog

My Website
Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

There is not much to blog... the KIDS are here from Dallas. I promise to blog more after they are gone. They will only stay through today as there is a winter storm advisory in place from midnight tonight on through late Monday. We have a forecast of 90% chance of sleet and snow. It was 80% chance of snow last night but this morning they changed it to 90% and sleet mixed with the snow. The kids were all staying until tomorrow afternoon but I told them they were leaving late today.

Terry and I will bundle up, light the fire and pray we don't lose power.

My thoughts to you:

Your words affect people much beyond what you realize. The thoughts that you think and the words that you speak outloud have tremendous power. You have expectations when you open your mouth to share thoughts, commands or sentiments. You influence everything around you by your positive or negative words or inflections. You cannot even predict the outcome of words you speak. Please use positive thought and influence for those around you. Be kind and be conscious of thinking positive thoughts and by doing that, you will be happier and you will light the light for others.

Laurie

"The Kingdom of God is within you." Luke 17:21

07 January 2011

Beginnings of Flowers of the Sun Commissioned Sunflower Paintings by Texas Artist Laurie Pace

'Beginnings of Flowers of the Sun'

36 x 36 Oil on Canvas

SOLD COMMISSIONED PAINTING

Contact me for commission work. Laurie

My Blog

My Website
Giclees on Canvas, Prints and Cards

BTTJ... that was the acronym that came to mind last night as we drove from home to our first meeting with the Franklin County Art Alliance. We took CR115 into town to take the south Loop. (Are you impressed? We really do have a south loop.) At the junction of Interstate 30 and the South Loop is a huge LOVE's TRUCK stop. What more could a trucker want??? How about a full sized truck car-wash? That didn't sound right. How about a full size truck-wash for those 18 wheelers? As we rounded the corner coming into the intersection there were trucks everywhere. There was a log jam of trucks making a right turn into the Truck wash. Is Thursday WASH YOUR TRUCK DAY? So we had our first official BTTJ...BIG TRUCK TRAFFIC JAM.

"Traffic congestion is a condition on road networks that occurs as use increases, and is characterized by slower speeds, longer trip times, and increased vehicular queueing . "

If you think about it we get those BTTJ's in our lives ALL the time. We actually create all of the traffic jams in our lives. We are the instigators in our own lives that mess things up to have it 'our way'. The interference is from within ourselves as we try to maneuver things they way we want them. That is when life becomes a BTTJ...Big Truck Traffic Jam. Once those 18 wheelers get jammed in somewhere, it takes a long time to un-jam them.

New thought for the new year is NOT to be negative, so can we consider a traffic jam to be a challenge? Looking back, can you remember all those times where you put yourself into a situation that was not good or you made some bad choices? You 'gifted' yourself the opportunity of a challenge when you did it... and you are still doing it today. The power of decision is always your own. You cannot always change what happens to you in life because there are circumstances that come to be that you have no control over. Your power here is how you react to the BTTJ's in life. Things are only a loss if you view it that way. BTTJ's are only there if you choose to stay in the midst of traffic to live your life.

God want you to be happy. He wants you to be joyful. He does not want you out 'driving' in traffic and getting trapped in the world. How long does it take for you to know when not to drive at rush hour?

Laurie

“[Be Holy] Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.” - 1 Peter 1:13