Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"JUST WAITING"

Section of #924 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (30"x24")  Completed April, 2007  DESTROYED

New Kitchen Continues to be Installed

"The call just came from Salvia Tile.  They will deliver and install granite tomorrow afternoon.  Such good news!"

LOWDERMILK BEACH IN NAPLES, FL, TUESDAY AFTERNOON, 7-7-2015

"Today was the first day at the beach for me since April or May and this was the scene 30 minutes after I arrived.  Hurrying, as best I could, I made it to the car just as the rain began to fall.  Though I wasn't at the beach very long, it was delightful to be there again as my Semi-Sabatical continues.  I am successful controlling the Peripheral Neuropathy if I get the much needed rest everyday, manage my meds and be careful not to overextend physically.  I've learned the price is too high to pay in pain and misery if I don't adhere to these guidelines.  Stress cannot be a part of my life now and my motto has become "Let go and let God".

Reading is and has always been a huge part of my life.  Some fiction but for the most part I read to learn.  Being on this Spiritual Awaking Journey, of course, has led me to read everything I can on The Spirit and Energy.  Einstein has shown us that all matter is Energy, including our bodies.  I love learning . . . . even during this later phase in life.

Below is a photo of one of the books I am reading now on my IPad and IPhone.  "The Grace in Aging" (Awaken As You Grow Older) by Kathleen Dowling Singh.  It's not a book that I'm reading straight through as I'm led to read other books as well.  "The Power Of Now" by Eckhart Tolle is still my all-time favorite."

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MOTHER & BABY"

Painting #942 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x20") Completed July, 2007  ARCHIVED

"LEO"

"LEO KNOWS HE DOESN'T BELONG ON THIS BED"


NEW CABINETS APPEARING
"Work will continue tonight as long as it takes because the Granite people will be here first thing in the morning to template the sink cabinet.  Chris has himself on a tight schedule.

Grace I am eternally grateful for the gift of grace. Monday, July 6, 2015 At times I look back at how my life has unfolded so miraculously. I found my way when I felt lost. Friends appeared when I was lonely. I survived a dangerous situation. How did these miracles happen? Through grace. Grace is God’s unconditional love in action. Grace lifts me up when I am down. When things fall into place, without me knowing how or why, I credit grace. Sometimes grace is so amazing I want to pinch myself. A long-lost family member reappears in my life. I find love when I least expect it. I am healthy! No matter what I may have on my plate, I trust I move through it with ease and grace. I am eternally grateful for the gift of grace. Grace, mercy, and peace will be with us from God the Father.—2 John 1:3

Art & Spirit (A New Kitchen) by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BLUE SHIRT"

Painting #916 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen 16"x12" Completed February, 2007  DESTROYED

"Early this year I decided to replace my kitchen oven because it was so old, used and much too small.  I began searching for the right oven that would go in the space available but nothing came together for me.  Knowing not to go forward until receiving the "go ahead" feeling or sign, I just let it go.  Always, that is the right thing to do and I am so glad I listened to the Still Small Voice within because the Universe has a whole new kitchen for me and not just a make do.  

Almost two weeks ago the project began and the new cabinets are being delivered tomorrow, Monday, July 6.  Chris, the best carpenter in the world, will begin right away installing and he's promising to have my new kitchen finished by Friday, July 10.  The new appliances are all GE's "Slate" line and they are scheduled to be delivered on Thursday, July 9.  Sometime before that the new granite countertops will be installed.  It is all very exciting and believe it or not, there has been little or no stress."

PART OF OLD KITCHEN

PART OF OLD KITCHEN

PART OF OLD KITCHEN (THIS WILL BE THE NEW PANTRY)

OLD KITCHEN GOING . . . 

OLD KITCHEN  . . . GONE

Rejuvenate I am whole, strong, and full of vitality. Sunday, July 5, 2015 Nature in its summer splendor invites me to rest and rejuvenate. Cats and dogs bask in the sunlight. A gentle breeze carries the scent of flowers. The sunset provides a moment of splendor at the end of each day. I follow nature’s cues and take time to relax and rejuvenate. I find a quiet place to connect with God—perhaps I sit on a rock near the water, a park bench, or on my patio. I settle into meditation. I breathe in the fresh air and let go of any worries. Spirit renews me with each breath. I open myself to fresh perspectives. I see myself whole, strong, and full of vitality. I am rejuvenated! Mindful to maintain balance in my life, I commit to rest and rejuvenation. I look forward to my next experience in nature. You have been born anew.—1 Peter 1:23

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

"LEO"

"Leo is a two year old miniature schnauzer and I have had him for four months.  He certainly is a joy and comfort to me.  Again, I am Blessed abundantly!  This toy animal is his favorite toy (of many).  It has paper inside the body that makes a crackle sound as he plays with it and he's found lots of squeaks in it too.  It's so entertaining to watch Leo play.  Sometimes he will sit on one end of the animal and then try to pull it out and away.  Doesn't he know he's sitting on it.  Watching Leo's attempts at getting this toy up and onto my lap is so funny but that's another story.  He's chewed off most of the ears of this toy and yet he's so sneaky when he does it.  He tries to hide that he's chewing the toy from me even though he's sitting right next to my chair.  Since he loves this toy so much, I have mended it a couple of times for him and it can take a lot more of Leo's "Love"."  

"TWO BROWN EGGS"

Painting #895 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (14"x11") Completed July, 2006  SOLD

Adventure I walk my spiritual path with courage and confidence. Saturday, May 2, 2015 Experiences like moving or changing jobs may bring both excitement and uneasiness. Transitions become easier when I accept plans may change and open myself to new adventures. I give thanks in advance for the lessons I will learn. I may feel the same mix of excitement and unease as I embark on a new spiritual journey. In prayer, I release any worries about outcomes and embrace surprises. Although I cannot anticipate every twist and turn, I know my overall success is assured. I become more attuned to my unique strengths as I deepen my connection with God. This knowledge of myself leads me to walk my spiritual path with courage and confidence. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who lived in a land of deep darkness—on them light has shined.—Isaiah 9:2

"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

"Macy" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MACY"

Painting #479 of 1181      Oil on Linen  (18"x18")       Painted June 12, 1998

"This painting of granddaughter, "Macy" was not executed as well as yesterday's "Megan" but the Love is just as great.  Macy was almost six years old when I painted this.  

"MACY"

Painting #406 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (30"x 24")   Painted in June, 1997

"Sure, I know these paintings were poorly done but I'm really enjoying seeing them again.  Finding these early painting photos on old CDs this summer is really a Blessing for me."

Fearless   From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

I release my fear and activate my faith.

Thursday, July 17, 2014

Fear is the opposite of faith. While fear may sometimes strike, I do not let it control me; instead, I activate my faith. I am strong; I am confident; I am fearless, because I have faith in the powerful love of God.

Anytime I face a situation that may cause anxiety or uneasiness, I pray. Praying helps me release my fears and open to the love of God. Praying calms my mind, soothes my emotions, and frees my spirit to accept the good that is mine to receive. I cannot be afraid when I am filled with the love of God.

God’s all-providing love surrounds me and each person for whom I pray. Where there is faith, there is no room for fear. In God’s love, I am faith-filled. I am fearless!

For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption.—Romans 8:15

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Beautiful Leticia by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LETICIA"

Painting #600 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (20"x 16")   Painted June 26, 2000

"Tish is my son Jason's wife and a dearly beloved daughter-in-law.  Karl and I had moved permanently to Key Colony Beach, Florida when they were visiting us and Tish graciously consented to sit for me.  As many of you know, it is exhausting to sit still under a spot light and let the artist stare at you and paint, stare and paint, stare and paint.  Tish did great!"

FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"             Friday, July 11, 2014

Flow

I am a divine being in the constant flow of life.

Divine energy moves in and through all of life. I experience this flow as Life itself through my breath, ideas, creativity, health, and wholeness. Life is an unceasing river of good.  Throughout my day, I am conscious of this stream of divine energy as I focus on every blessing I receive—a friend’s message, a hug, a lesson. I am energized and empowered. I am in the flow.Conscious of ways I may be blocking the flow of good, I adjust my outlook from concern to confidence. A change in attitude can make the difference between failure and success. Grateful for the energy and power of Life, I am a divine being in the flow.

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb.—Revelation 22:1

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Destroyed Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS"

Painting #997   Oil on Linen   (10"x8")  Painted December, 2007   Destroyed

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"                                                  Thursday, April 10, 2014

AFFIRMATION

I affirm the absolute good of God.

The words I speak and write carry energy and power, so I choose them with care and clear purpose. When I speak words that express Truth, I set in motion the energy of prayer. My chosen words are sacred. What I send into the world returns to me multiplied.

I boldly declare my good, speaking in life-affirming ways about myself and others. I live an empowered life of confidence and optimism. God is the only power at work within my mind, soul, and body, and this power is invincible.

My affirmations demonstrate my faith in the absolute good of God. I speak with certainty, clarity, and positive expectation.

So shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose.—Isaiah 

      From Unity's "DAILY WORD"                                                 Wednesday, April 9, 2014

CONSCIOUSNESS

I see the dawn of a new day.

My life is a reflection of my consciousness. If I am feeling unhappy with my circumstances, I don’t linger in disappointment or discouragement, but rather I rejoice in the discovery that I can change my life by shifting my consciousness. If I don’t like the film that is playing, I can change the reel!

To shift my consciousness, I examine my beliefs. Do I believe I am deserving and loved? Do I believe I am one with God? I discard any unsupportive self-talk and affirm: I deserve all the good God has for me. I am whole, confident, and strong through the power of God within me. I repeat this practice until my consciousness shifts and I see the dawn of a new day.

I pray that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ … may give you a spirit of wisdom and revelation as you come to know him.—Ephesians 1:17

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Floral Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A SMALL BOUQUET"

Painting #1112        Oil on Linen   (8"x10")     Painted February, 2010        SOLD

THE DAILY WORD

Wednesday, February 5, 2014

INNER PEACE

I am at peace in this present moment.

In our fast-paced lives, finding inner peace requires intention and practice. As I focus on the present moment and all that it holds, I release any hurry or anxiety. I let go of past concerns and future expectations. Centered in this now moment, I discover inner peace.

I may experience peace as a feeling of serenity, a state of harmony, or a deep trust that all is well. Knowing God is with and within me, as close as my very breath, I feel the assuring presence of peace.

My spiritual practices—prayer, meditation, and contemplation—help me maintain a consciousness of peace. In the midst of any rush or confusion, I center on the presence of peace in the present moment, and all is well.

The peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts.–Philippians 4:7

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"CALL ME RED"

Painting #1103    Oil on Canvas  (30"x30")     Painted January, 2010           SOLD

THE DAILY WORD

Saturday, February 1, 2014

LET GO,LET GOD

I boldly let go and trust in God.

Holding on to the familiar may feel more comfortable than facing the unknown. Change can be frightening. Yet as I look back at my life, my breakthroughs have occurred when I was willing to let go of the usual routine, accept any temporary discomfort of change, and try something new.

With this in mind, I now set aside any anxiety about a potential change and trust in God. I let go of others’ expectations and follow my inner calling. I let go of the way things have always been and let God lead the way to something new. Releasing any fear of the unknown, I step out in faith.

I boldly let go and let God and see my life unfold in new and exciting ways.

Make me to know your ways, O Lord; teach me your paths.—Psalm 25:4

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Oil Painting "Large Bouquet" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LARGE BOUQUET"

Painting #1169   Oil on Canvas    (48"x36")    Painted in June, 2012

(This painting was largely painted over with black gloss paint in September, 2013)

Friday, January 24, 2014

FAITH

I step out with faith and achieve my highest potential.

In order to live life to its fullest, I must be willing to occasionally embrace the unknown. This requires courage, pressing on even when fearful. Yet I have more than just courage; I have faith. Faith is steady, grounded, and filled with assurance.

I cultivate my faith in the fertile soil of Spirit. Infinite Substance is the source of all creation. Thoughts of faith fill my mind, and I use the creative power of words and actions to manifest my good.

I may not foresee the precise form in which new circumstances will be birthed. Yet I am assured that my highest good will be established. In faith, I step forward with joyful expectation into the next phase of my unfolding life.

Keep alert, stand firm in your faith, be courageous, be strong.—1 Corinthians 16:13

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"Nora" /Self Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"NORA"  2009

Self Portrait   Oil on Linen  (24"x20")    2009    /  Archived

"This was me almost 5 years ago.  Today, after cataract surgery, I no longer need to wear glasses and my hair is silver with a very short cut.

Of course my spiritual journey began the day I was born but in January of this year, 2013, I began a Spiritual Quest.  This year is coming to a close now but not my Spiritual Quest.  With Joy I proclaim this year to be one of the most remarkable years of my life here on Earth.

Today, another Blessing!  The artist and author, Florence Scovel Shinn, was revealed to me.  She was born in 1871 and transitioned in 1940.  She attended the PA Artist Academy and was married for some years to one of the Ashcan artists of New York,  Everett Shinn  (1876-1953).
Her words are the reminder of what I learned back in 1982 after reading Napoleon Hill's book "Think And Grow Rich".  This is just what I need today and gladly share Florence's book with you now.  I have this book on my IPad/Kindal but it is so good having her book read to me."  

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Self Portrait & Spiritual Truths by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"16th Anniversary Necklace"

Painting #627 of 1179 paintings /  Oil on linen  (18"x14")  Painted in November, 2000

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"

Sunday, August 4, 2013

WORTHY

I am worthy of my good!

Like all people, I want a good life—loving relationships, rewarding work, and abiding peace. Yet these blessings may elude me until I awaken to my inherent worth.
I am created in the image and likeness of God. My worth does not depend on my behaviors. I am intrinsically worthy because I am a living, loving, divine creation.
When doubts arise, I remember the truth of my being. The good I seek is right where I am. The love I desire is the love of God already present. The work I long to do is Spirit’s calling within me. As I stand in my own sacred worth, I feel the blessings of God infill me. I am worthy of my good. I expect the best, and I am ready to receive!

Now, my daughter, do not be afraid, I will do for you all that you ask, for all the assembly of my people know that you are a worthy woman.—Ruth 3:11

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

The Soul & Eternal Life / by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"GREEN SCARF"

 Painting #985 of 1179 paintings   Oil on linen  (10"x8")  Painted December, 2007

"While walking on a Naples beach, yesterday for nearly an hour, this was my view.  The sun was always shining on me while the dark, heavy clouds were blowing 

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

"A Mother's Love" Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A Mother's Love"

Painting #561 of 1179 Paintings / Oil on linen  (30"x24")  Painted November, 1999  

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Art & The Spiritual Quest by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Onions & Cantalope"

Painting #501 of 1179 Paintings   Oil on linen  (24"x30")   Painted September, 

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Archived Artwork / Spiritual Quest / by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Jessica & Macy"

Painting #241 of 1179 Paintings / Oil on linen  (30"x40") / Painted, September, 

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Art Archives & Spirituality by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Lady With Letter"

Painting #238 of 1179 Paintings /  Oil on linen  (30"x24") / Painted in 1996

"The spiritual journey started for me as a little girl, eight years old(I'm 76 now), sitting on the front row pew of our neighborhood Methodist Church in Terre Haute, Indiana.   Other children and friends from my neighborhood were seated with me and none of us wanted to be there.  We loved going to Sunday School and to do that, we had to stay for morning worship service too.  A wonderful lady and servant of God, Miss Bartruff, had heeded God's call and her mission was to bring as many children as she could to church.  She went throughout our neighborhood, knocking on doors and asking mothers if she could be permitted to pick up their children and take them to Sunday School every Sunday morning.  My mother was happy to send us to Sunday School and several other mothers were too.  My girlfriends and I loved Sunday School and our teacher, Mrs. Dooley.  We sure didn't like it though that we had to stay for worship service, sitting on the front row, before Miss Bartruff could take us home.  That was the deal  . . . .  and we did it.

One Sunday, while sitting on that pew, I heard the "Word" and my little girl heart opened.  I received Jesus Christ as my Savior.  I did this without a word to anyone but I was sincere and God's LOVE has never left me. 

That's all for today but remembering Miss Bartruff has made me aware once again how very serious and important it is to heed God's call in our lives."

Today's "DAILY WORD" from Unity

SIMPLE WORDS

"I AM a divine expression of Spirit."

My senses of sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch emanate from my physical body. My capacity to think independently reflects my mental ability. I understand, however, that I am more than my physical and mental self. I am a spiritual creation.
Although I may sometimes act or speak in error, the perfection of Spirit is within me. As I connect simple but powerful words such as faith, love, and peace with the affirmation, I AM, I affirm my true nature and expand my consciousness. I AM an expression of God’s love and peace right here and now. I AM faith in action.
I embrace the Truth of who I AM and live this truth every day. I AM an expression of Spirit contributing to a world of divine creation.

Truly it is the spirit in a mortal, the breath of the Almighty, that makes for understanding.—Job 32:8

NORA KASTEN WEBSITE