Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

Five Paintings Left In Amsbury, MA / August 25, 2016

#1196 "Mixed Roses"  Oil on Canvas (14"x11")

 #1190 "Queen Anne's Lace"  Oil on Canvas (18"x18")

 #1197  "Roses"  Oil on Linen  (10"x20")

 #1199  Lilacs"  Oil on Canvas  (14"x11")

#1200  "Abstracted Floral"  Oil on Linen  (14"x11")

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Inner Truth God-life within assures me that all is well.

Wednesday, August 24, 2016 Deep inside me is a truth I want to know consciously all the time. When I am centered in it, I know all is well in my life and the world. When I am aware of it, there is no room for struggle or problems of any kind. I find it in the place the psalmist called “the secret place of the Most High.” I simply become still and rest my attention on God-life within. Then I, too, discover this secret place where the highest truth dwells. I meet God at the core of my being. Here I find solace, passion, joy, and a sense of oneness with all life. Resting in the Silence, I hear and see through spiritual ears and eyes. No matter the circumstances of life, I know this deeply seeded and ever-available truth: God is here and all is well. You desire truth in the inward being; therefore teach me wisdom in my secret heart.—Psalm 51:6

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Pots of Begonias"

Painting #1195  Oil on Canvas  (12"x16")  Completed August 9, 2016

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Resilience I am flexible. I am resilient.

Tuesday, August 9, 2016 As I ponder the spiritual quality of resilience, I am reminded of the beautiful willow tree that sways in the wind but does not break. The resilience of the willow tree is a powerful example of how it is possible to be stable, strong, and flexible. In order for me to be healthy and strong through any challenge, I must also remain flexible. I remember to stay open to the support that Spirit offers me on my spiritual path. Rather than closing myself off, I trust in God. I surrender my thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes and gain a deeper understanding of who I am. I become more flexible and open in my thinking. Centered in God, I open the way for possibilities to enter my life. I am flexible. I am resilient. They are like trees planted by streams of water.—Psalm 1:3

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL IN MOONLIGHT"

Painting #1194 / Oil on canvas (16"x12") 8-5-2016

Free I am free to live a full and meaningful life.

Saturday, August 6, 2016 Theoretically, if a clear barrier is inserted into an aquarium, a fish will attempt to swim through but will eventually adapt to the smaller space. If the barrier is removed, the fish remains confined as though the obstacle remained. Are my habits or perceived obstructions limiting me? I am free to live a full and meaningful life. If fearful thoughts are limiting me or if I’ve grown accustomed to having others tell me “No,” I affirm: I am free to live a full and meaningful life. I have gifts and talents to share, ideas to explore, and dreams to pursue. I accept myself as a child of God having abundant potential and freedom to be my best self. For freedom Christ has set us free. Stand firm, therefore, and do not submit again to a yoke of slavery.—Galatians 5:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"HYDRANGEA IN AMESBURY"

LEO/RIKI

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Trust My trust is strengthened by my joyful heart.

Friday, July 29, 2016 Martin Luther once compared the exercising of faith to placing a joyful wager on God’s unexpressed goodness. Every time I center myself in a positive spirit, I am truly praying. When I lift up my heart in joy, I move in the direction of better outcomes in my life. Trust and joy are linked within me, resulting in answered prayer. What can I do right now, in the midst of whatever is facing me, to raise my spirits? I engage my cheerful nature with a sense of optimism about a positive result. I begin by trusting that all things are working together for my good—in my life and in the lives of all those I care about. My joyful heart is giving me the energy that empowers this answered prayer. In God, whose word I praise, in God I trust; I am not afraid.—Psalm 56:4

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Pale Roses"

Painting #834 of 1183 paintings / Oil on Linen (36"x24") Completed June, 2005

"There is a painting underway now and it is Good to be painting.  I am in a new place now and my easel and painting setup is in the living room.  Good lighting is available throughout the day.  The painting I am working on now is a Still Life and I'm hoping to have it completed by June 28, as we leave Naples for the Summer that day."

Let Go, Let God I release fear and allow God’s blessings to flow into me. Saturday, June 11, 2016 When I want to declutter, I sort through my clothing and other belongings and get rid of any items that I no longer like or use. Letting go of things may be difficult. But I challenge myself to create space. I also take regular inventory of my thoughts, actions, and commitments. They serve specific purposes in my life, so if they are not working for my highest good, I let them go. I spend time in meditation to strengthen my power of discernment and know what is mine to release. I make room for new insights and experiences that usher God’s good into my life. I release what holds me back, and I open myself to future blessings. Do not remember the former things, or consider the things of old. I am about to do a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?—Isaiah 43:18-19

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES"

Painting #891 of 1183 / Oil on Linen  (24"x20")  Completed July, 2006     SOLD

FROM UNITY'S DAILY WORD

Friday, March 25, 2016 I am a physical, spiritual, and social being. Within me are hundreds of parts that comprise my whole. My skeleton frames me. My heart circulates blood infused with oxygen courtesy of my lungs. My brain monitors processes. Each part of my body has a specific function and purpose. I am the sum of these parts that allow me to think, breathe, move, and feel. Divine energy flows within me, infusing every cell, tissue, and organ with strength and vitality. There is only one of me, and I am a magnificent creation of God. I give thanks for my body and the amazing way that it works without my even being aware of it. I praise my body for its strength, and I give thanks to God for creating me. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; that I know very well.—Psalm 139:14

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Roses For The Table"

#899 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x24") Completed July 30, 2006

"This will come as a surprise to my golfer friends and family.  Tomorrow, I am having my first golf lesson . . . . . . from a Pro.  It is so exciting!

Faith I am anchored in life, love, and wholeness. Tuesday, February 16, 2016 How much faith is needed to achieve great results? Jesus taught that even a small amount of faith can move mountains: “For truly I tell you, if you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you will say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move.” If I am lacking the faith to pursue big dreams, I start with small ones. Trusting in the presence of God within to guide my way, I steadily advance toward a larger, divinely inspired vision for my life. To build my faith, I use the spiritual tools of prayer, imagination, affirmation, and action. I see divine order in all that unfolds, both large and small. I devote time each day thanking God for perfect results. I am anchored in life, love, and wholeness. I have faith in faith itself. Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.—Hebrews 11:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A JAR OF ROSES"

Painting #1124 of 1187 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (20"x 12")  Completed 4/9/2009

"Christmas, 2015 was especially meaningful to me and I can never again say, "I don't like Christmas", as I have in the past.  I am most thankful . . . . and happy beginning 2016!  

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Faith I am meant to live a great life! Monday, January 4, 2016 As I begin the new year, I step out in faith. I am excited to know that God has given me all I need to have a great life. “It is the Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” I gratefully accept! The energy, life, and love of Spirit move through me easily and effortlessly. I open to divine ideas and discern what is mine to do. I am blessed with unlimited possibilities to experience God. Opportunities to connect with the Divine arrive in new and unexpected ways. I am now conscious of others expressing kindness, joy, and peace. I feel one with all that is. I feel certain that my circumstances will work out favorably, perhaps in unimaginable ways. As I deepen my connection with God, my faith grows ever stronger. I am meant to live a great life! For we walk by faith, not by sight.—2 Corinthians 5:7

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE BRASS VASE"

#1021 of 1186 Paintings / Completed December21, 2008         SOLD

"ONE FOR LUNCH

#108 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (17"x 19")  Completed November, 1993   SOLD

"This date, December 3, is especially meaningful to me.  My beloved husband, Karl, and I first met in Indianapolis, IN on December 3, 1982."

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Let Go, Let God

I freely let go and let God be God in me.

Thursday, December 3, 2015

One of the key words in the phrase “let go, let God” is the word let. Allowing myself to let go means stepping out in faith. If I am accustomed to self-reliance, this act of trust may feel more like a leap than a step.

I take that time now. I relax and allow myself to simply be with God. I let go of the need to be in control. I remember that I do not have to know and do everything. I do not have to be in charge; I can relax and just be. What a freeing feeling! What a comfort to know I do not have to do anything alone.

There is a continuous presence at work in my life guiding me on my way, blessing and supporting every step. I let go and let God be God in me.

Let each of you lead the life that the Lord has assigned, to which God called you.—1 Corinthians 7:17

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES ARE RED"

#1117 of 1185 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (24"x20") Completed March 5, 2010

"ORCHIDS WITH CHAKRA BACKGROUND"

#1186 of 1186 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (24"x 36")  Completed November 12, 2015

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Comfort Divine energy soothes my spirit and I am at peace.

Saturday, November 14, 2015 One of the joys in life is warmth at a fireside. Whether I am taking in the rich aroma of a meal cooking outdoors, or being warmed by the heat in my home, comfort emanates from the hearth. Relaxing into the warmth of home, I let go of all concern and feel blessed and at peace. In the same way, the warmth of my inner hearth is a place of sustenance and calm. Comfort fills my heart, and pain and sadness fade away. My soul moves into the quiet. I feel divine energy restoring my spirit. I am enfolded in the comforting love of God. New hope arises for a satisfying, orderly life. I am comforted, healed, and renewed in mind, body, and spirit. Even the sparrow finds a home, and the swallow a nest for herself, where she may lay her young, at your altars, O Lord of hosts, my King and my God.—Psalm 84:3

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BABY SUNFLOWER"

 #1030 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (10"x8")  Completed April 22, 2009    SOLD

"HARP & FIDDLE"

#1081 of 1184 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas  (12"x 12")  Completed Nov. 14, 2009

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Gratitude Gratitude draws my good to me like a spiritual magnet.

Saturday, October 10, 2015 Gratitude is a spiritual magnet. I put my attention on the positive and draw more of the same to me. Friends, family, the comfort of home, and the beauty of nature bless me every day. I live from a place of gratitude and find an abundance of joy! At times, I may feel less than blessed. I may face financial or health challenges. I may be going through a transition and feeling lost or confused. Then, I refocus on gratitude. I make a list of five things for which I am grateful. As I think about my blessings, my attitude changes. The difficulties do not seem as large as they did just a moment ago. I attract more blessings as I practice gratitude and see life through a new perspective. I am fulfilled. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances.—1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BOUQUET OF YELLOW ROSES"

#590 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (40"x30")  Completed April, 2000   SOLD


"FLORAL BOUQUET"

#507 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (12"x9")  Completed Sept., 1998   Destroyed

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Change I gracefully move through life’s transitions.

Tuesday, September 29, 2015 As colder days approach, trees shed their leaves and animals prepare for hibernation. They instinctively move through the seasons. In contrast, humans are prone to resisting change even though we know it is an essential part of growth. I may notice myself worrying or fighting change. Then I remind myself I am able to prepare and move through any change I encounter. I envision myself shedding old beliefs and ways of being just as a tree releases leaves. Like the hibernating animals, I prepare my mind and body for a time of quiet and reflection. I see divine order in the leaves reappearing each spring. My life also follows a pattern. I emerge from each season stronger, wiser, and more loving. For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.—Ecclesiastes 3:1

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A JAR OF ROSES"

#1124 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (20"x 12")  Completed April 9, 2010


"MANDOLIN WITH DRIED FLOWERS"

#567 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 36")  Completed in December, 1999   SOLD

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Prosperity I embrace abundant living and give thanks.

Saturday, September 26, 2015 True prosperity is no mystery—it is a manifestation of faith. Jesus gave us a pattern to follow. A crowd of 5,000 who had gathered to hear him speak needed a meal. Taking five loaves and two fish, Jesus turned his attention to God. He acknowledged his Source, gave thanks for what he had, and blessed it. He anticipated an abundance of food and a miracle occurred. I follow the example of Jesus and give thanks in advance for what I desire. I share love with others and love returns to me. I give thanks for my healthy body, nourish it, and use it to serve God. I am vigorous and vibrant. I live in faith and gratitude and I am prosperous. And taking the five loaves and the two fish, he looked up to heaven, and blessed and broke them, and gave them to the disciples to set before the crowd. And all ate and were filled.—Luke 9:16-17

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PEACH ROSES"

#1123 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (24"x20")  Completed in April, 2010  SOLD

"PEONIES IN SILVER POT"

#306 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 30")  Completed in May, 1996     SOLD

"BOUQUET OF ASTERS"

 #330 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (16"x12")  Completed August, 1996   SOLD

"RED ROSES IN BRASS POT"

#440 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x36")  Completed in November, 1997

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Let Go, Let God I let go and open my mind and heart to guidance from God.

Tuesday, September 15, 2015 I may push myself to near exhaustion. When this happens, Spirit guides me to rest my weary brain and body. As I let go, the wall built from my “do-it-all-myself” attitude begins to crumble. With the first opening, the light of God shines through. The words of Jesus come to me: “I am with you always.” I relax in the awareness of Spirit within me. My breath anchors me and I release my tight hold on challenges and circumstances. Letting go brings down the perceived wall of separation. Divine love, wisdom, and understanding flow in me. I am open to receiving God’s help. By consciously letting go and letting God, I keep the channel open for answers, guidance, and love, assuring me I am never alone. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age.–Matthew 28:20

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ORANGE BLOSSOMS"

#1049 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (12"x12")  Completed August 13, 2009  SOLD

"LEO"

#1183 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (48"x 48")  Completed July, 2015

"A friend asked me about this painting of "Leo" thinking I had removed it from the blog but no, it's still here.  It was completed in July and appears in the "Blog Archives" which is located in the right hand column of my blog.  Click on July, 2015.

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Mindful I embrace life by focusing on the present moment.

Monday, September 14, 2015 Technology leads me to engage in multiple activities at once. I may eat while watching TV; talk on the phone while walking in the woods; or check my email while having lunch with a friend. Multitasking keeps me from being fully present in each activity. It may leave me feeling disconnected. To restore harmony I practice mindfulness—the art of focusing attention on the present moment. When I eat, I savor every bite and enjoy different textures and flavors. In nature, I listen to the sounds of birds singing and notice the beauty of the landscape. I engage fully in conversations and listen with empathy. If my thoughts wander, I gently bring them back to this moment. Mindfully awake, I embrace my connection with Life. He makes me lie down in green pastures; he leads me beside still waters; he restores my soul.—Psalm 23:2-3

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MEGAN"

 #235 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (16"x 12")  Completed July, 1995

"ROSES & MELON"

 #401 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (20"x 16")  Completed June, 1997  SOLD

"RED ONIONS"

 #812 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (8"x 10")  Completed February, 2005

"FRUIT FOR BREAKFAST"

#830 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (40"x 30")  Completed May 20, 2005


From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Strength I am strong and unstoppable!

Sunday, September 13, 2015 Today I focus on my divine power of strength. Knowing I am strong, I pursue my goals with confidence, determination, and perseverance. Any temporary setbacks only serve to increase my resolve. Just as steel becomes stronger after it is heated to a high temperature, my ability to draw on my inner strength grows as I steadfastly overcome obstacles. If I encounter what looks like a roadblock, I call upon my divine faculty of strength. I turn within and feel the mighty power of God. I affirm: I am strong and unstoppable! Passion wells up within me as I envision my dreams. With renewed strength and faith, I see my goals through to completion. Those who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength, they shall mount up with wings like eagles, they shall run and not be weary.–Isaiah 40:31

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE GLORY OF ROSES"

#801 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (30"x24")  Completed Dec. 3, 2004   SOLD

"LILY & ROSE STILL LIFE"

#815 of 1184 Paintings / Pastel  (20"x16")  Completed March, 2005   DESTROYED

"68th BIRTHDAY BOUQUET"

#822 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (20"x 16")  Completed April 30, 2005


"MACY AT THE TABLE"

#408 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  ((40"x 30")  Completed July, 1997

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Grace I open my heart to the grace of God.

Wednesday, September 9, 2015 I love to see flowers awaken to a new day. As the sunlight touches them, they respond by opening their petals in a beautiful display of color. In the same way, I open my heart to the grace of God. The activity of grace in me is as constant as the sun rising and falling. Grace is always present. My heart’s opening takes no personal effort when I surrender to the light within me. Grace comes naturally. I feel warmth, acceptance, and love. With each new moment, I surrender my old ways and embrace more of this divine activity. I let grace bring about perfect outcomes and let go into a deep feeling of trust and peace. Whatever efforts I make in life, grace adds more good than I could ever imagine. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.—Hebrews 4:16

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MACY"

 #77 of 1184 Paintings / Pastel (18"x 20")  Completed in March, 1993

"SNOWBALLS IN MAY"

#45 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (26"x 22")  Completed in May, 1992

 "RETIREMENT LUNCHEON"

#213 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (21"x25")  Completed in March, 1995

 "GRAPES"

#510 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (9"x12")  Completed September 30, 1998

 "APPLES & BRASS"

#601 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (12"x16")  Completed July 1, 2000      SOLD

 "BOUGAINVILLEA BOUQUET"

#700 of 1184 Paintings / Pastel  (24"x 20")  Completed April, 2002    SOLD

 "ROSES FOR THE TABLE"

#899 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  Completed in July, 2006     SOLD

 "ROSES & BAVARIAN CUP"

#913 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (5"x 7")  Completed January 22, 2007

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Faith I have faith in divine direction.

Tuesday, September 8, 2015 While walking trails in a nature preserve, I find signs marking the way. I may not have a clear picture of the way through the forest. I simply trust the signs and follow the path to my destination. Likewise, as I start new ventures, make important decisions, or heal relationships, I have faith in divine direction. I do not need to envision the entire pathway before I start. God guides every part of my journey—even when I do not see clearly around the bend. What a relief to let go of the need to know every detail. If I encounter obstacles, I regard them as stepping-stones. Everything leads to my divine destination as I exercise faith in the mighty power of God. If you have faith the size of a mustard seed ... nothing will be impossible for you.–Matthew 17:20