Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"QUEEN ANNE'S LACE"

Painting #1190  Oil on canvas  (18"x18")  Completed July 13, 2016 in Amesbury, MA

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Self-Esteem I accept and respect myself.

Monday, August 8, 2016 At times we all face challenges we cannot overcome without help. Admitting that a situation seems beyond our control can be the first step toward positive results. Accepting ourselves even if we make a mistake is an act of love and respect that builds self-esteem. Henry Ford—who admittedly failed many times—said, “Failure is the opportunity to begin again, more intelligently.” Life is a progression of learning, trying, starting over, and realizing more of our divine potential. Our spiritual nature holds the seeds of wisdom, success, and love. As we recognize our own spiritual qualities, we feel good about our endeavors and love ourselves even though we will always have lessons to learn. For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.—2 Timothy 1:7

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 IN ANTIQUE PITCHER"

#410 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x 20")  Completed July, 1997     SOLD

"ROSES IN VIENNA VASE" 

#418 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x 24")  Completed August, 1997   SOLD

"These paintings were photographed with one of my early digital cameras and this was the best I could do.  . . . . 

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Faith Right where I am, God is.

Saturday, October 31, 2015 Life is filled with beginnings and endings. Autumn leaves turn gold and crimson, then fall from the trees. One part of the cycle comes to an end. A period of dormancy is about to begin. My own life is also a cyclical process. I need not fear change, for it is normal. We all experience endings: the loss of a job, leaving a home, or the passing of a loved one. During these times, I turn to God in prayer. I affirm: Right where I am, God is. God is my ever-present source of comfort and strength. Just as I trust new growth will bud on the trees come spring, I have faith new growth will take place in my life. By faith Abraham obeyed when he was called to set out for a place that he was to receive as an inheritance; and he set out, not knowing where he was going.—Hebrews 11:8

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES & BAVARIAN CUP"

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

"RED GERANIUMS"

#1001 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x 30")  Completed January, 2008     SOLD

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Knowledge I demonstrate my faith by putting knowledge into action.

Monday, October 5, 2015 As I move through life, I learn in myriad places. In school I gain a basic understanding of our world. I continue to learn at work, home, and in my community. The more skills and knowledge I acquire, the greater my chance of worldly success. Yet there is a greater education offered to me each day. It is a spiritual knowing—a deep understanding. It is knowledge I put into action as I live my life more prayerfully and thoughtfully. I express love unconditionally, I forgive continuously, and I demonstrate my faith courageously. I pray in positive, life-affirming ways. Through my spiritual knowledge, I make conscious decisions and live life to its fullest. If any of you is lacking in wisdom, ask God, who gives to all generously and ungrudgingly, and it will be given you.—James 1:5

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE EMERALD RING"

 #932 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (20"x16")  Completed May 25, 2007    SOLD

"NAPLES HOME INTERIOR"

 #940 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x40")  Completed July 13, 2007

"ROSES, ROSES, ROSES"

 #588 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (40"x 30")  Completed March, 2000   SOLD

"HARP & FIDDLE"

#1081 of 1183 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas (12"x 12")  Completed November 14, 2009

"ROSE MEDLEY"

#747 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x20")  Completed September, 2003   SOLD

Inner Peace I am one with Christ and I am at peace. Monday, August 3, 2015 Spelunkers explore and descend through underground tunnels and vertical shafts to reach the depths of a cave. They find secret places and absolute quiet. They discover the mysteries of the earth. In a similar way, I descend to my core to connect with my Christ Self. I discover pure tranquility. I receive understanding, love, and peace. I find this center of my being through my spiritual practices of prayer, meditation, and silence. I find the way on my own—it is my journey to peace. Once found, I return often. Inner peace comes through regular connection with my inner core of love. I find answers and comfort in knowing God is always there. The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds.–Philippians 4:7

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES & QUEEN ANNE'S LACE"

 #596 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x20")  Completed June 15, 2000

"THE BLUE VASE"

#608 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (40"x30") Completed July 24. 2000   SOLD

"PANCAKES"

#875 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (16"x20")  Completed May 22, 2006   ARCHIVED

"EMERALD & GOLD"

#1106 of 1183 Paintings / Acrylic & Gold on Canvas (8"x 8")  Completed January, 2010

"THE BEAUTY OF PEONIES"

#835 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (24"x36")  Completed June 7, 2005

New Beginnings I am free to begin anew. Friday, July 31, 2015 In the legal world, judges are bound by precedent—generally what was decided before dictates the outcome of a present case. Thankfully, the laws of Spirit, not man-made laws, truly govern all of life. As Thomas Troward, a noted British judge, said, “Principle is not bound by precedent.” In Truth, I am not bound by the past—not my own, my family’s, or anyone else’s. I am liberated by spiritual principles of unconditional love, infinite grace, and divine wisdom. I am free to choose a new path of greater love, peace, and joy. I embark on new beginnings with a positive outlook. I expect wholeness, love, and freedom. Uplifted by my consciousness of spiritual Truth, I know all things are possible. For mortals it is impossible, but for God all things are possible.—Matthew 19:26

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

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"RED ROSES IN VIENNA VASE"

Painting #418 of 1181 Paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x24") Completed August, 1997 /SOLD

Success I apply my talents and abilities to my work, and I am successful. Wednesday, November 19, 2014 My work is more than a source of supply; it is also a source of fulfillment. My work gives me the opportunity to use the talents and abilities God has given me. When I use my gifts to serve and bring joy to others, I have a sense of accomplishment—I achieve true success. No job needs to be boring or humdrum. If I feel my work does not give me the opportunity to grow, I pray for a change. In the meantime, I do the best I can right where I am and thank God for my job every day. I bring happiness to the people I serve. Today I put my heart into what I do, knowing that true success comes from the inside. I am blessed to be of service in the world! Serve him with single mind and willing heart; for the Lord searches every mind, and understands every plan and thought.—1 Chronicles 28:9

Roses Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES ARE RED"

Painting #1117 of 1181   Oil on Canvas  (24"x 20") Completed March 5, 2010

"Here are two recent slideshow videos.   
25 PAINTINGS     NORA KASTEN PAINTINGS IV

Today's message is from Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Guidance

Spirit guides me in the right way.

Before I embark on a journey, I map the route to and from my destination. But life is not as easy to plan. Instead, I trust Spirit within to guide me in the right way at the right time.

Present to each moment, I listen for the guidance I know is available to me. I do not worry about the future, for I know Spirit is leading the way.

I hear the guidance of Spirit when my mind is calm, so I spend time in the Silence each day. I listen for Spirit in the words of others, in Scripture, and in song. I hear Spirit speak to me in my heart. I am not anxious about making decisions, because I trust in Spirit to guide my way.

When you turn to the right or when you turn to the left, your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”—Isaiah 30:21

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Painting #620 by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL IN BRASS POT"

Painting #620 of 1181 paintings / Oil on Linen/ (30"x 24") September, 2000  SOLD

"This is the first painting up this morning as I'm scanning them now from old photos.  I Am so glad that I photographed right from the beginning (1987) of my years of painting.  I did not know how to use a computer yet. . . . . or a camera very well."  Karl and I were living in our beautiful home in Key Colony Beach, Florida when I did this painting.  My memories are so very good of that time in life and I'm truly them.   This summer of 2014 is especially good for me and I wish that to be also for everyone of you."

Below is from Unity's  "Daily Word"        

Camaraderie               Saturday, July 26, 2014

The love of God is expressed through my friends.

One way the love of God expresses is through friendship. I feel valued and valuable as I connect with my friends. They deepen my experience of life, and our camaraderie is mutually supportive.

With encouraging words and supportive actions, we lift one another’s spirits. We share times of joy and adversity, growing together in friendship. We accept each other as we are and hold faith in positive outcomes for one another. We share a love that has no opposition, only respect, kindness, and a sense of ease.

As I encourage, reassure, or console a friend, I am expressing Divine Love and that love is expressed back to me.

All of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.—1 Peter 3:8

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"Lady In The Mirror" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LADY IN THE MIRROR"

Painting #334 of 1181  Oil on Linen   (30"x24")  Painted in August, August, 1996  Archived

"This painting could have been titled "Diamonds & Furs".   Karl and I were living at Lamb Lake in Indiana when I painted this on a hot August day.  Air conditioning is always such a blessing for us.

Since transferring painting photos from old CDs this summer to an external hard drive, I have thought of making a video of the paintings for UTube.  Somebody beat me to it though and I don't know how they did it.  I felt led to Google Nora Kasten this morning and look what came up.  I just wish the photos were better quality and I believe I will learn how to do one of my own. Please click on this link."         http://youtu.be/WpmeY_LG7F0

Here is a slideshow I had of my Fiddler's Creek home.   I think I'll be able to do this.   http://youtu.be/90XYxB_xXu0

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"      INNER PEACE                     Monday, July 21, 2014

The peace of God enfolds me. I am serene.

When the busyness of daily life leaves me feeling overburdened, it is time to seek the peace of God.

I understand that God not only knows my needs, but brings me peace if I permit it. I turn to Spirit within and repeat this Scripture quietly: God is not the author of confusion but of peace. If I still feel tension or stress, I repeat the prayer until I begin to feel the calming peace of God enfolding me.

The tangle and clutter of the day disappear as my thoughts become more orderly. I am able to return to my day, not rushed or confused, but confident that God’s will for me is peace. Spirit is with me always, helping me regain peace whenever I call on the Divine Presence.

For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.—1 Corinthians 14:33 (NKJV)

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Old Self Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE HAIRCUT"

 #673 of 1181 Paintings  /  Oil on Linen  (15"x 13")  Painted December 7, 2001

"This summer as I'm transferring painting photos from old CDs to an external hard drive, it is a wonderful trip down memory lane.  I remember exactly how I felt, where I was and even the weather while I was painting.  Of course, Karl was always with me during the painting years and the memories make me happy.

It's an eye-opener for me to realize that through the years my hair was often cut short.  In my mind I always thought of myself with long hair but that wasn't true . . . . . maybe, I just wanted my hair to be long."

Quote from ADAM JAMES today   /   July 14, 2014 

"The reason someone disapproves of you is because they disapprove of themselves. You cannot please someone who is not pleased with themselves.

No matter how great you are, they'll always find or create something wrong with you.

So why bother trying to please people?

All that matters is that you please yourself. All that matters is that you love yourself and create a life that you love.

As you do this, you'll draw more and more people who naturally love and appreciate you, and you'll quickly drop those who don't, simply because you love yourself too much to put up with people who don't value you. That, or the people who used to appreciate you less will appreciate you more, because you appreciate yourself more. Other people usually treat you the way you treat yourself.

It's a good idea to stop seeking love and approval. Love and approve of yourself, do things that are loving to yourself, and then you'll naturally draw people who love you rather than having to seek the love of others.

Not everyone will always love you, but it won't matter. When you fully love yourself, who cares if anyone else loves you? Loving yourself makes you magnetic to love, attention, friends, and the opposite sex, but you won't care. You'll love yourself so much that none of this will matter anymore.

If it doesn't matter already, congratulations, you're well on your way to full self-love. Wonderful things will result from this self-love, in just a matter of time."

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Old Self Portraits by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A LADY IN RED"

Painting #67    Pastel on Sanded Paper  (14"x 18")    Painted in October, 1992

"NORA AT SIXTY ONE"

Painting #500   Oil on Linen  (24"x 24")    Painted in September, 1998    Archived

"ART & THE ARTIST"

Painting # 905  Oil on Linen  (60"x 30")  Painted in October, 2006     Destroyed

"I Am still in the process of transferring my painting photos from old CDs to an external hard drive for the computer.  It's really fun, yet it may take all summer to finish.  It's interesting and amazing to me these four old self portraits don't even look like the same woman, let alone me.

Who remembers when ladies wore hats?  We thought we were so stylish and I guess we were . . . for the era.  That red hat was my last for fashion and I have such good memories of wearing it."

FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"                            JULY 3, 2014

Love

I am a perpetual winner in love.

Thursday, July 3, 2014

In the children’s game of hide-and-seek, at least one player is hidden while another is seeking to find those in hiding, often with excited anticipation. Usually the person hiding is found amid shrieks of joy.

In the game of love, I don’t need to hide or seek. The truth is I am always found by love, and this is a joyful discovery. Love is here, inside me. I am a perpetual winner in love.

Whether love manifests as friendship, romance, service, or simply a warm feeling, it reminds me that the infinite love of God is with me always. I am loved beyond measure, and I share this love with others, unconditionally. I need not seek, nor can I hide from love. Love is present here and now, and I carry it in my heart.

The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love.—Jeremiah 31:3

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE