Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PORTRAIT SKETCH of LEO"

Painting #1183 / Oil on Canvas (48"x 48")  Completed July, 2015

"While the men were working on my new kitchen, I was painting "Leo".  This is actually a design piece that I painted especially for my living room.  It hangs on the wall next to the old, white baby grand piano."

The reason I have not shown pictures of my finished kitchen is because it is not finished.  The "great carpenter" went on vacation."

Lively I am lively in Spirit. Saturday, July 18, 2015 Unity cofounder Charles Fillmore certainly knew how to lead a lively life. Even in his later years, he stayed active and taught Truth principles. When he was 93 years old, he wrote one of his most popular affirmations: I fairly sizzle with zeal and enthusiasm and spring forth with a mighty faith to do the things that ought to be done by me. This lasting exuberance for service springs from an inner source—the Christ within me. My body and mind are in a constant state of renewal. I nurture this vitality by praying and meditating. Paradoxically, my quiet time with God unleashes vast storehouses of energy and inspiration. Whatever I am called to do, I do with zest and zing! Render service with enthusiasm, as to the Lord.—Ephesians 6:7

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

"ROSES  IN TIFFANY"

Painting #716 of 1182 paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x18") Completed April, 2003

MORE PHOTOS OF LEO

Self-Care I honor God by caring for myself. Wednesday, July 1, 2015 As fast as life goes sometimes, I may find it difficult to stop, rest, and take care of myself. I may feel pressured to do things for others and keep a hectic pace to meet their requests. I remember the lyrics of a country song, “I’m in a hurry to get things done. Oh, I rush and rush until life’s no fun.” I stop hurrying and care for myself. The most important person to focus on is me. Caring for myself is honoring Spirit within. I rest, breathe, and step away from pressures or worries. I take time to connect with God through prayer and meditation. I also take time for fun! Caring for myself does not take away from my ability to care for others. It energizes me and strengthens my relationship with God. Therefore my heart is glad, and my soul rejoices; my body also rests secure.—Psalm 16:9

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