Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BABY SUNFLOWER"

Painting #1030 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (10"x8") Completed April, 2009  SOLD

 Leo in the cart at BED BATH & BEYOND

 Leo at BED BATH & BEYOND

 Leo & I at BED BATH & BEYOND

Leo in cart as we're leaving HOME GOODS

"Naples, Florida is "Pet Friendly" at many stores and some outdoor restaurants.  This is great because I can take Leo with me most of the time for my limited outings.

Beloved I am the beloved of God. Sunday, June 28, 2015 In times of darkness, I remember difficulties give me a chance to grow. I faithfully turn within for wisdom and peace. As my old thinking clears away, divine light radiates from my heart to every aspect of my life. I dance in grace, knowing I am a wondrous creation of God! In this state, my eyes open to everyday miracles. The sun rises every morning and nourishes the planet. Rain waters the soil and trees bear the fruit I enjoy. On top of that, Earth is home to so many amazing animals. God, the source of all creation, is active in my life too. I confidently affirm peace, happiness, good health, and prosperity. I am the beloved of God. For now the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come.—Song of Solomon 2:11-12

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE BLUE VASE"

Painting #608 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (40"x30")  Completed July, 2000   SOLD

"Here's Leo just after his bath.  He is so glad to have that over with."

Guidance I turn to God for guidance and understanding. Thursday, June 25, 2015 W e have information at our fingertips thanks to smartphones and the Internet. I may be tempted to rely on technology as my one-stop shop for help with every decision. However, for personal direction, I always start with the most important and reliable source of guidance—God. Spirit in me has the answer to every question. My process of asking for guidance begins with the release of any perceived limitations or stressful feelings. As I relax in the Silence, I listen with my heart, mind, and senses. My inner voice speaks lovingly and my guidance is clear. Centered in God, I am awake to the guidance I seek. 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

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RED ROSES"

Painting #1032 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (12"x12")  Completed May 7, 2009  SOLD

Leo, the Miniature Schnauzer         June 9, 2015

"Leo posed for me to take these photos this afternoon after arriving home from Home Depot."

Let Go, Let God I release old habits, and fill my mind with divine ideas. Monday, June 8, 2015 Old beliefs or habits sometimes reappear in my life. They may resurface if I am distracted or stressed. Every time I “wake up” from the actions of the old me, I pause for a deep breath and remember to let go, and let God. Some deeply rooted habits or beliefs may take longer to eliminate from my consciousness. I acknowledge them as habitual energy that has lingered from the past. Yet no mind pattern is stronger than God. In prayer, I affirm my truth: I release old patterns, habits, and beliefs. I am filled with confidence and courage. As I let go, and let God within lead my life, my mind is filled with divine ideas. I am confident, creative, and compassionate. I am one with God. Now I know only in part; then I will know fully, even as I have been fully known.—1 Corinthians 13:12

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE BRASS VASE"

"ROSES IN JULY"

Painting #896 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x24")  Completed July 15, 2008

Kasey & Leo                 January 10, 2015

"Kasey graduates from 5th grade tomorrow here in Naples.  She is a beautiful and precious young lady and she and her mother were the influence for me to adopt Leo back in January.  I am so thankful.  "Congratulations" to you, Kasey. "

Forgiveness Thank you, sweet Spirit, for the gift of forgiveness. Tuesday, June 2, 2015 I both give and receive the gift of forgiveness when I release a painful situation to God. This does not mean I condone what happened—I simply choose to let it go. My past has only as much power over me as I give it. I can let my past hold me back or I can move on. I can carry the weight of emotional pain forever, or lay it down and release it to God. I choose to be free from resentment, anger, and hurt. As I release the pain of the past, I claim the life of peace I deserve. My load lightens, my pain heals, and my heart opens. Forgiveness frees me to laugh, love, and embrace a life of joy. Thank you, sweet Spirit, for the gift of forgiveness. He will wipe every tear from their eyes ... mourning and crying and pain will be no more, for the first things have passed away.—Revelation 21:4