Tuesday, September 8, 2015

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

Monday, September 7, 2015

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES ARE RED"
#1117 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (24"x20")  Completed March 5, 2010

"GRIEF ABSTRACT"
#1150 of 1184 Paintings / Acrylic on Canvas  (24"x 48")  Completed March 5, 2011   Destroyed

"RAIN & FIRE"
#1107 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas (10"x 10")  Completed January 30, 2010


A MESSAGE FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"
Being
Divine love is the essence of my being.

Monday, September 7, 2015

Being productive is important—even necessary—to life. Yet constant doing may damage my health. It may also keep me from knowing my intrinsic value and experiencing love.
I restore my well-being by taking time to do nothing. I let go of mental planning or worrying and center myself in the boundless peace of God. I release any belief that I have to do more or become someone better to be worthy of God’s acceptance and love.
Divine love is all-encompassing and is, in fact, the essence of my own being. As I relax and simply be myself, I am revitalized. As I bask in the stillness, I experience my eternal oneness with the infinite love and peace of the Divine.

“Be still, and know that I am God. I am exalted among the nations, I am exalted in the earth.”—Psalm 46:10

Friday, September 4, 2015

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

NEW PAINTING OVER FIREPLACE


Photos of New Kitchen & Pantry

"These photos were taken with my IPhone and the best that I could do.  It must seem like a jumble to those who have not been in my home but I assure you, everything is in fine order. Leo even managed to be in one of the photos.































 "A MESSAGE FROM UNITY'S DAILY WORD"
Quality
I focus on the quality of my experiences.

Friday, September 4, 2015

True joy lies not in the quantity but in the quality of my life experiences. Engaging in too many activities—even fun activities—may leave me feeling drained. I am deeply nourished when I do a few things with great love and attention.
I begin my day in prayerful discernment, setting aside, without guilt, any nonessential tasks. By focusing on what really matters I make more heartfelt connections with others. I notice the beauty of my surroundings. I savor my meals. Rather than rushing through an endless list of activities, I focus on each moment of my precious existence.
Focusing on the quality of my experiences becomes a habit as I consciously practice doing less and paying more attention. I am aware of God in every moment of the day.

The kingdom of God is among you.—Luke17:21

Thursday, September 3, 2015

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"WHITE ROSES / BLACK & WHITE"
New painting #1184 / Oil on Canvas (50"x 40")  Completed September 2, 2015
"This painting is now hanging over my fireplace instead of the "Angel" painting."

LEO
"LEO, my Miniature Schnauzer, wanting to get up on my lap"

"ORANGE BEGONIA"
 #1074 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Canvas  (24"x 24")  Completed October 30, 2009

"WISTFUL"
#800 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (20"x 16") Completed Nov., 2004   SOLD

"CLEMENTINES"
#1016 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (14"x14")  Completed Nov., 2008   SOLD

"RED ROSES"
#1032 of 1184 Paintings / Oil on Linen  (12"x12")  Completed May 7, 2009     SOLD




Monday, August 3, 2015

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

Daily Word: Daily Inspiration From Unity
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

Friday, July 31, 2015

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
Daily Word: Daily Inspiration From Unity
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

Thursday, July 30, 2015

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"BROWN EGGS"
#895 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (14"x 11")  Completed July 12, 2006   SOLD


LEO AT BED BATH & BEYOND CHECKOUT (Yesterday)

LEO IN PARKING LOT / ON HIS WAY TO THE CAR
"We're shopping for new things for the soon to be finished new kitchen."

Daily Word: Daily Inspiration From Unity
Relaxation
I relax and reconnect with Spirit in me.

Thursday, July 30, 2015

The Universe balances the activity of the day with the stillness of night. In a similar way, I relax after work, a long drive, or strenuous exercise. My self-care practice also includes short breaks throughout the day. Wherever I am, I take a few minutes to rest and reconnect with Spirit.
I begin by focusing on my breath. I breathe in and my mind is at peace. I breathe out and let go of stress. I notice my breath flowing into each part of my body—my head, my shoulders, and my chest. I breathe out through my arms, down my torso, and all the way out the bottoms of my feet. My heart, mind, and soul rejuvenate in God. Spirit flows in me with ease.
After a few minutes, I bring my attention back to where I am sitting. I return to my activities with a peaceful heart.

You will find rest for your souls.—Matthew11:29

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

Art & Spirit by Artist, NORA KASTEN


"MOSTLY ZINNIAS"
#848 of 1183 Paintings / Oil on Linen (24"x20")  Completed Aug. 3, 2005   ARCHIVED
Daily Word: Daily Inspiration From Unity
Let Go, Let God
I let go and give thanks for abundance.

Tuesday, July 28, 2015

I may go through frustrating times when I just can’t seem to reach my goals. Christ within leads me to reflect on what may be blocking my abundance. Is my mind clinging to one outcome? Have I set limits on my abilities? Am I considering the many ways for a situation to work out?
I am invigorated as I acknowledge the infinite wisdom and power of God. I identify any narrow thinking and judgments. I let go of a limited vision of the good available to me. With new clarity, I remember God may have something even better in mind!
I focus on my own positive qualities and the good in others. I let go and give thanks for abundance—right before my very eyes.

What no eye has seen, nor ear heard, nor the human heart conceived, what God has prepared for those who love him.—1 Corinthians 2:9