This weekend has been a gift. Sometimes painful. Sometimes refreshing. I've written in my journal quite a bit and tried to be in touch with the real me and what my spirit is saying to me. I've
been alone. Completely alone. By choice. My spirit has longed for this.
I go between relishing in these times and hating these times. It's hard and I feel the need to nap. . . a lot. I'm opening myself up to the possibilities before me. Why is it we have to be vulnerable to be able to experience the next big "peg of growth?"
God, you're stuck with me,
Lila
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Monday, April 11, 2011
Through the door...there is moonlight
In keeping with my new business name, Lila Moonlight (changed from Lila's Journey) new business cards were needed.
I've always been fascinated with doors and windows. When our family traveled to Europe several years ago, they'd have to wait on me as I busied myself taking pictures of windows and doors.
This business card seemed to suit my new name. Tell me what you think.
I'll close with some poignant door quotes...
The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live. ~Flora Whittemore
Be an opener of doors for such as come after thee. ~Ralph Waldo Emerson
Follow your bliss and the universe will open doors for you where there were only walls.
Lila
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Bliss
My husband has been traveling quite a bit lately. First he went to NOLA for a mission trip and then to Atlanta for a conference. All total he was gone almost two weeks. While I love alone time, I sure missed him.
I did this collage the day he was returning. There's "me" down in the right bottom corner (Lila Moonlight) and him as a silhouette toward the top. The antique watch is on the road that leads him to me. Counting the minutes until he got home to me. All together now......Awwwwww.....
Next month we'll celebrate thirty years of marriage. It will be a celebration for sure! He's my best friend, my encourager, my counselor, my personal comedian and most definitely my better half. We've grown together so much so that we can complete thoughts for each other before they even come out of our mouths. Marriage hasn't always been easy, but there sure is cream on the other side. I'm so thankful for my love.
Bliss, bliss, bliss,
Lila
Saturday, February 19, 2011
The Need to Shake Things Up
I don't know about you, but I get in routines (ruts) frequently. I find something I just love and am like a pit bull gnawing down for all it's worth. Before long, I realize I've just about worn that "something" out and need something new to do...think...eat...paint...
Then before I know it, I'm on to the next thing I love and the routine starts again.
But lately in the studio I haven't been painting my girls. I've been working on a collage and some really big pieces for weeks. I know! That's way different for me. These aren't finished, but here's an idea of what's been happening on the easel.
This is a collage piece that has magazine, tissue, small marbles, etc. in and on it. It's going to have a cool door knocker on it when I can figure out how to affix it so that it actually works. Not completed, but it's coming. I like the idea because of the juxtaposition of the images. (Really just wanted to fit that word - - juxtaposition in there cause it's a great word. ) But really, I like the pathway going to nowhere or somewhere, the topiary trees on either side of the door made from pictures and the odd window on the side of the house. The door is filled with my favorite hues of blues, greens and a smidge of purple. It's 16" x 20" on canvas board.
This painting is a quite large 3 feet x 4 feet on a wide canvas. The photos don't do either of these paintings justice. iphones just aren't that great for documenting true colors. This one is acrylic, glaze and gold metallic. It should be finished in a couple of more Saturdays.
Thanks for taking a peak into my studio,
Lila Moonlight
Then before I know it, I'm on to the next thing I love and the routine starts again.
But lately in the studio I haven't been painting my girls. I've been working on a collage and some really big pieces for weeks. I know! That's way different for me. These aren't finished, but here's an idea of what's been happening on the easel.
This is a collage piece that has magazine, tissue, small marbles, etc. in and on it. It's going to have a cool door knocker on it when I can figure out how to affix it so that it actually works. Not completed, but it's coming. I like the idea because of the juxtaposition of the images. (Really just wanted to fit that word - - juxtaposition in there cause it's a great word. ) But really, I like the pathway going to nowhere or somewhere, the topiary trees on either side of the door made from pictures and the odd window on the side of the house. The door is filled with my favorite hues of blues, greens and a smidge of purple. It's 16" x 20" on canvas board.
This painting is a quite large 3 feet x 4 feet on a wide canvas. The photos don't do either of these paintings justice. iphones just aren't that great for documenting true colors. This one is acrylic, glaze and gold metallic. It should be finished in a couple of more Saturdays.
Thanks for taking a peak into my studio,
Lila Moonlight
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Lila Moonlight
I've started more writing (for my classes) and less art for now. I felt that my creative spirit needed a last name and I decided on Moonlight. (I guess I really am a hippie at heart.)
Anyway, you can still find me by going to Lila's Journey, but for today...I'm Lila Moonlight. Tomorrow, I might be Lila Sunbeam.
Affectionately,
Lila
Anyway, you can still find me by going to Lila's Journey, but for today...I'm Lila Moonlight. Tomorrow, I might be Lila Sunbeam.
Affectionately,
Lila
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Rebel With a Cause
Have you ever wondered what you'd name yourself if you got to choose? I'd choose Lila. It's a strong, old-fashioned Southern name. I was fortunate in that I got to grow up around a mom who was always questioning the way things were done. She always encouraged me to be who I was created to be. Mom was "Sandy" to her peers and "Ida Mae" to her family in Mississippi. I loved it! It showed me that if you didn't like something very much, you could change it.
Who says life has to be the way it appears to be? At least ask the questions. What makes me unique? What does God have in store for me? How can I serve others with joy? These questions matter.
Journey on, my friend,
Lila
lilasjourney@gmail.com
Sunday, December 5, 2010
A New Time
It's been exciting to sell some of my art. I've never taken myself as a "serious artist" but more as someone who just enjoys a little serendipity in my life.
I've painted some new gals lately that are fun.
I'm moving more out of the marketing arena of it (though I haven't really done a lot of that) to just doing it for fun. I'll probably start selling more of my originals instead of selling prints or plaques. I'm also starting some different types of painting with collage, mixed media (acrylics, inks, textures, etc.) that will be interesting and inspiring for me.
Why the change, you may ask? I simply don't have time to market my work. If Hallmark wants to call me tomorrow and beg to have some of my girls for cards, well, okay. :) Otherwise, I'm just doing art for fun and enjoying some R & R from a day of work.
I only have one more class to go to finish my Nursing Facility Administrator's Licensing requirements. I'll begin it in January. One thousand intern hours - check. Four LTCA classes - check. State and National exams to be completed after this next class.
God has given me a heart for the elderly and I believe he has prepared me for this task. So, while I'll continue painting, I may be closed more than open during Artwalk. I won't be generating a lot of plaques or cards or any of the other things I've enjoyed for the last year. As my daddy used to say, "It's time to buckle down." (I never knew entirely what that entailed but it sounds a little scary.
Pray for me as I get busy doing what I am preparing myself to do. Pray also that I keep a painting or two in my heart - - if not on my easel.
On to the next chapter,
Lila
I've painted some new gals lately that are fun.
I'm moving more out of the marketing arena of it (though I haven't really done a lot of that) to just doing it for fun. I'll probably start selling more of my originals instead of selling prints or plaques. I'm also starting some different types of painting with collage, mixed media (acrylics, inks, textures, etc.) that will be interesting and inspiring for me.
Why the change, you may ask? I simply don't have time to market my work. If Hallmark wants to call me tomorrow and beg to have some of my girls for cards, well, okay. :) Otherwise, I'm just doing art for fun and enjoying some R & R from a day of work.
I only have one more class to go to finish my Nursing Facility Administrator's Licensing requirements. I'll begin it in January. One thousand intern hours - check. Four LTCA classes - check. State and National exams to be completed after this next class.
God has given me a heart for the elderly and I believe he has prepared me for this task. So, while I'll continue painting, I may be closed more than open during Artwalk. I won't be generating a lot of plaques or cards or any of the other things I've enjoyed for the last year. As my daddy used to say, "It's time to buckle down." (I never knew entirely what that entailed but it sounds a little scary.
Pray for me as I get busy doing what I am preparing myself to do. Pray also that I keep a painting or two in my heart - - if not on my easel.
On to the next chapter,
Lila
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Serenity Now
This past weekend I used my Sabbath (Saturday) to clean my studio and begin putting office furniture together in my studio. (Not exactly the way to honor Sabbath! I now know!!)
Consequently when Vann and I walked that night I felt no peace...no serenity. In fact I just sat down on the bleachers at the track where we walk and allowed my spirit to catch up with myself. I listened for God.
As my sweet husband walked the track, I paid attention to the night noises, the wind against my face and any discernment from the Holy Spirit. God has always spoken to me through order, his beauty, creation, etc.
We walked back to the house and I knew what I needed to do. I needed to make the surroundings in my studio more serene. I have a lot of things that inspire me in there and extra color takes away from the calm. I knew right then I needed to find a new home for the adorable chairs and maybe the table.
Vann listened intently. (He has been down this road with me a time or two or twenty.) He told me to do what I needed to do but that if I got rid of the table, I'd most likely be looking for another table soon. True.
So, with that in mind, I'm going to let the chairs go. They were second hand to me and have served a great purpose, but like Ingrid said in Uptown Girls to Molly Gunn,
"Downsize, Molly.
Purify.
Streamline.
Find your center."
Too much of a good thing is not a good thing.
So, if you know of anyone who wants some really cute chairs, let me know. I only need to get enough for them so that I can buy more used chairs. :)
I plan to be in my studio during Artwalk this coming Thursday night if you'd like to see them. 1133 Cockerell Galleries - Suite 213.
Serenely seeking,
Lila
Consequently when Vann and I walked that night I felt no peace...no serenity. In fact I just sat down on the bleachers at the track where we walk and allowed my spirit to catch up with myself. I listened for God.
As my sweet husband walked the track, I paid attention to the night noises, the wind against my face and any discernment from the Holy Spirit. God has always spoken to me through order, his beauty, creation, etc.
We walked back to the house and I knew what I needed to do. I needed to make the surroundings in my studio more serene. I have a lot of things that inspire me in there and extra color takes away from the calm. I knew right then I needed to find a new home for the adorable chairs and maybe the table.
Vann listened intently. (He has been down this road with me a time or two or twenty.) He told me to do what I needed to do but that if I got rid of the table, I'd most likely be looking for another table soon. True.
So, with that in mind, I'm going to let the chairs go. They were second hand to me and have served a great purpose, but like Ingrid said in Uptown Girls to Molly Gunn,
"Downsize, Molly.
Purify.
Streamline.
Find your center."
Too much of a good thing is not a good thing.
So, if you know of anyone who wants some really cute chairs, let me know. I only need to get enough for them so that I can buy more used chairs. :)
I plan to be in my studio during Artwalk this coming Thursday night if you'd like to see them. 1133 Cockerell Galleries - Suite 213.
Serenely seeking,
Lila
Friday, November 5, 2010
Christmas Open House
It's About Time, the lovely shop of old and new finds on South 14th and Albany Street in Abilene is having their Christmas Open House tomorrow. They always do a fabulous job of decorating for the holidays and showcasing their new items.
Some of their new items include some of my new art plaques (smile). I stopped by for a peek this afternoon and was so delighted to see them on their wall.
The store looks fabulous with more serendipity and love and magic packed in there than should be possible. Ah, but these gals know how to pack the punch when it comes to beautifying things and making a heart sing.
One of my favorite collages has a saying by Cindy Petters on it. "When something isn't right, throw a little love at it." What great advice!
I finished this little lady this week. "Why say "yes" when you can squeal "oo la la!" She makes me smile. She's always looking for a way to improve on life by sprinkling fun and joy wherever she goes. She's got a lime green background. The photo quality of these isn't great. They were taken with my iphone.
More to come!
With a twinkle in my eye,
Lila
Some of their new items include some of my new art plaques (smile). I stopped by for a peek this afternoon and was so delighted to see them on their wall.
The store looks fabulous with more serendipity and love and magic packed in there than should be possible. Ah, but these gals know how to pack the punch when it comes to beautifying things and making a heart sing.
One of my favorite collages has a saying by Cindy Petters on it. "When something isn't right, throw a little love at it." What great advice!
I finished this little lady this week. "Why say "yes" when you can squeal "oo la la!" She makes me smile. She's always looking for a way to improve on life by sprinkling fun and joy wherever she goes. She's got a lime green background. The photo quality of these isn't great. They were taken with my iphone.
More to come!
With a twinkle in my eye,
Lila
Sunday, October 24, 2010
It's About Time
I've most likely mentioned the wonderful store ("It's About Time") on South 14th and Albany Street before on my blog. When I was running our bed and breakfast, Journey's Inn, I had purchased many of the furnishings from this wonderful store. In fact, when the creative juices are dry, I head over there. It's food for the soul. Not only are the furnishings wonderful, but so are the owners. Delightful ladies!
I'm thrilled that they are going to carry some of my art. I'll be taking over some plaques mid week and am working on some mugs and totes to deliver soon, too. Gifts just in time for Christmas!
Today, my gratitude cup is overflowing. I'm thankful for a husband and best friend who supports me in this wild and wacky journey. I'm thankful for children that are beautiful inside and out. I'm thankful for the breeze that gently blows. I'm thankful for those plump pigeons outside my studio window as I write this. I'm thankful for the beautiful sun that shines. I'm thankful for the filling time of worship and praise this morning with our church family. I'm thankful for friends who support, lead and counsel along the way. I'm thankful for my God who is ever showing me more of himself through his beauty, his people and his word.
How many ways can I say, "thankful"?
Lila
I'm thrilled that they are going to carry some of my art. I'll be taking over some plaques mid week and am working on some mugs and totes to deliver soon, too. Gifts just in time for Christmas!
Today, my gratitude cup is overflowing. I'm thankful for a husband and best friend who supports me in this wild and wacky journey. I'm thankful for children that are beautiful inside and out. I'm thankful for the breeze that gently blows. I'm thankful for those plump pigeons outside my studio window as I write this. I'm thankful for the beautiful sun that shines. I'm thankful for the filling time of worship and praise this morning with our church family. I'm thankful for friends who support, lead and counsel along the way. I'm thankful for my God who is ever showing me more of himself through his beauty, his people and his word.
How many ways can I say, "thankful"?
Lila
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Time to Make the Donuts.
I really do, with all sincerity love my job. I believe that God has uniquely fitted me to the aging field. I get up in the morning and truly look forward to the day. I enjoy the residents I serve and the staff I serve alongside.
Some mornings I admit that I feel like the guy on the old Dunkin' Donuts commercial.
When his alarm went off at 3 or 4 a.m. he would get up, bleary eyed and declare, "It's time to make the donuts."
Sometimes this body feels the same way when my alarm goes off. But lately I'll go to bed with more ideas than I can shake a stick at for what I want to do the next day at work or with my art. By the time the evening rolls around after work, the creative energy seems to be spent.
Busy-ness of the day seems to blind my heart with each 'to do' task. I am meeting more and more people who are looking for a wonderful place where their loved one will not only survive but thrive. I believe I work at such a place, so it gives me great joy to share with them about it.
But at the end of the day... hoo-eee!
I remember commenting to my husband when we were in our 20's that I didn't understand why people in their 50's didn't seem to volunteer with the youth ministry or anything else much. Now? I get it. They (we) are tired. Yep. Bone tired.
It is my prayer that God uses me during the day with others and refreshes my spirit through art and being with my husband in the evening. This allows me to replenish my juices so I can "make the donuts" the next day.
Willing to make the donuts,
Lila
Some mornings I admit that I feel like the guy on the old Dunkin' Donuts commercial.
When his alarm went off at 3 or 4 a.m. he would get up, bleary eyed and declare, "It's time to make the donuts."
Sometimes this body feels the same way when my alarm goes off. But lately I'll go to bed with more ideas than I can shake a stick at for what I want to do the next day at work or with my art. By the time the evening rolls around after work, the creative energy seems to be spent.
Busy-ness of the day seems to blind my heart with each 'to do' task. I am meeting more and more people who are looking for a wonderful place where their loved one will not only survive but thrive. I believe I work at such a place, so it gives me great joy to share with them about it.
But at the end of the day... hoo-eee!
I remember commenting to my husband when we were in our 20's that I didn't understand why people in their 50's didn't seem to volunteer with the youth ministry or anything else much. Now? I get it. They (we) are tired. Yep. Bone tired.
It is my prayer that God uses me during the day with others and refreshes my spirit through art and being with my husband in the evening. This allows me to replenish my juices so I can "make the donuts" the next day.
Willing to make the donuts,
Lila
Sunday, October 10, 2010
The Day After The Day
Yesterday was homecoming and our youngest daughter, Caroline was on homecoming court. It was such an honor to be a part of this experience with her. She was beautiful inside and out, as always. (I hope to post some pictures soon.)
I had planned to be in North Carolina with some old and dear friends for some much needed R & R this weekend and postponed my trip because my baby girl was being honored! Vann had also planned to be out of town but got an earlier arrival back so that he could escort her. What a precious daddy and husband he is.
So, Friday was recognition in chapel for the homecoming court, lunch and the Queen's Tea. It was all perfectly delightful. Yesterday was the morning homecoming parade, another chapel with recognition for Caroline, lunch and then the homecoming game. Another wonderful day to remember.
I came home afterwards and sat in my recliner and don't think I moved until I went upstairs to go to bed. I was exhausted. I kept trying to figure out why I was so tired. Caroline was the one with the busy schedule. Not me. She was the one who woke up at 3 a.m. to coordinate the parade that she was helping to co-lead. Not me. She was the one who went from one event to the next showing graciousness and a beautiful character. Not me. I was just the supporting cast.
But, today as I've fought the blues, I've begun to realize that I was with Caroline through all of it. I was feeling every elation, every emotion that she was feeling. . . real or imagined.
Isn't that the way it is when you are a mom? So, today, I'm sitting with these feelings (and fatigue), trying to not have all the answers . . . today. . . and allowing myself to just be. Us introverted souls need time for quiet reflection so that we can embrace the world again. I'm sure tomorrow the joy will return when I get another good night's sleep. My spirit is just weary.
Yesterday Vann was with Care and as they were heading to the homecoming court, he witnessed her speaking with a student who might be considered "one of the least of these." Caroline in her usual big-hearted fashion called them by name and asked how they were doing. This student told her he voted for her. She's our Queen of Hearts.
Am I proud? I know the correct answer is, "Of course I am." But truth be known, I'm really more just incredibly thankful that God has placed these amazing children in our lives.
As always,
Thankful...
Lila
I had planned to be in North Carolina with some old and dear friends for some much needed R & R this weekend and postponed my trip because my baby girl was being honored! Vann had also planned to be out of town but got an earlier arrival back so that he could escort her. What a precious daddy and husband he is.
So, Friday was recognition in chapel for the homecoming court, lunch and the Queen's Tea. It was all perfectly delightful. Yesterday was the morning homecoming parade, another chapel with recognition for Caroline, lunch and then the homecoming game. Another wonderful day to remember.
I came home afterwards and sat in my recliner and don't think I moved until I went upstairs to go to bed. I was exhausted. I kept trying to figure out why I was so tired. Caroline was the one with the busy schedule. Not me. She was the one who woke up at 3 a.m. to coordinate the parade that she was helping to co-lead. Not me. She was the one who went from one event to the next showing graciousness and a beautiful character. Not me. I was just the supporting cast.
But, today as I've fought the blues, I've begun to realize that I was with Caroline through all of it. I was feeling every elation, every emotion that she was feeling. . . real or imagined.
Isn't that the way it is when you are a mom? So, today, I'm sitting with these feelings (and fatigue), trying to not have all the answers . . . today. . . and allowing myself to just be. Us introverted souls need time for quiet reflection so that we can embrace the world again. I'm sure tomorrow the joy will return when I get another good night's sleep. My spirit is just weary.
Yesterday Vann was with Care and as they were heading to the homecoming court, he witnessed her speaking with a student who might be considered "one of the least of these." Caroline in her usual big-hearted fashion called them by name and asked how they were doing. This student told her he voted for her. She's our Queen of Hearts.
Am I proud? I know the correct answer is, "Of course I am." But truth be known, I'm really more just incredibly thankful that God has placed these amazing children in our lives.
As always,
Thankful...
Lila
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Fly
Today was such a gift. Though, so was yesterday...and the day before...and the day before. I've been toying with the idea of getting my art "out there." I have a friend who is going to help me do that. For a long time I drug my feet.
Our daughter, Caroline said, "Mom, are you afraid you are going to fail?" I thought about that a long time - - yet another one of my procrastination measures. tee hee.
As I thought about it, I realized I wasn't afraid I was going to fail. I was afraid I might succeed.
A new friend shared with me a Nelson Mandela quote today that really spoke to me.
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, "who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?" Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. You were born to manifest the glory of God that is within you. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we're liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
Wow. As I've reflected on this and other thoughts I've come to realize that not working to excel in what are God given gifts is in fact a big way to dishonor God.
I've been very drawn to birds and nests all my life, but even more so lately. I've been drawn to bird's cages and free birds. We are born free birds. But in the midst of life, we quietly, complacently allow ourselves to be locked in a little cage. Oh, sure, we have to follow rules, laws, etc. But sometimes we lose our true self in the cage.
Today I was at It's About Time, my favorite store in Abilene, and got this pretty little necklace by Jo Carol Spurlock. She does such a fantastic job on these little nests. I love what the medallion says, too..."fly."
Well, okay, then.
I will.
How about you?
Lila
Our daughter, Caroline said, "Mom, are you afraid you are going to fail?" I thought about that a long time - - yet another one of my procrastination measures. tee hee.
As I thought about it, I realized I wasn't afraid I was going to fail. I was afraid I might succeed.
A new friend shared with me a Nelson Mandela quote today that really spoke to me.
"Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, "who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?" Actually, who are you not to be?
You are a child of God. Your playing small doesn't serve the world. There's nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won't feel insecure around you. You were born to manifest the glory of God that is within you. It's not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.
As we're liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others."
Wow. As I've reflected on this and other thoughts I've come to realize that not working to excel in what are God given gifts is in fact a big way to dishonor God.
I've been very drawn to birds and nests all my life, but even more so lately. I've been drawn to bird's cages and free birds. We are born free birds. But in the midst of life, we quietly, complacently allow ourselves to be locked in a little cage. Oh, sure, we have to follow rules, laws, etc. But sometimes we lose our true self in the cage.
Today I was at It's About Time, my favorite store in Abilene, and got this pretty little necklace by Jo Carol Spurlock. She does such a fantastic job on these little nests. I love what the medallion says, too..."fly."
Well, okay, then.
I will.
How about you?
Lila
Saturday, September 4, 2010
No Regrets
One of our residents stopped in my office today to chat. She's in her 90's. A perfectly lovely lady. Her family has shared with me that she can be a hand-full.
Anyway, as we were enjoying a lovely chat she shared that she had some regrets especially about some things when she was raising her children. She told me that she regretted to this day that she had not allowed her daughter to go to the University of Texas where she had wanted to go. She realizes now the reason she wouldn't let her go was silly.
She then went on to say that one of her daughters wanted her bridesmaids to wear hats in her wedding but she thought it was tacky and wouldn't hear of it. She now regrets making a fuss over it as it was her daughter's wedding.
I asked her if she had told her daughters about these regrets. She said she hadn't. I encouraged her to share with them what she had shared with me. She said they would be visiting soon and thought she would tell them.
We just do the best we can with the tools we are given at the time, don't we? Sometimes it's not very good and other times we do alright. But, how important to apologize and ask forgiveness when we recognize our shortcomings.
I'm thankful for the conversation I was able to share with this beautiful lady today. I'm thankful that God placed me in a place to get lessons from those older than me all the time. (I think he knew I was a slow learner and needed a lot of guidance. smile)
I don't want to ever look back with regrets, either. I've done some pretty bone-headed things, for sure. Let's take care of what we can with regrets from the past and then move on.
Movin' on,
Lila
Anyway, as we were enjoying a lovely chat she shared that she had some regrets especially about some things when she was raising her children. She told me that she regretted to this day that she had not allowed her daughter to go to the University of Texas where she had wanted to go. She realizes now the reason she wouldn't let her go was silly.
She then went on to say that one of her daughters wanted her bridesmaids to wear hats in her wedding but she thought it was tacky and wouldn't hear of it. She now regrets making a fuss over it as it was her daughter's wedding.
I asked her if she had told her daughters about these regrets. She said she hadn't. I encouraged her to share with them what she had shared with me. She said they would be visiting soon and thought she would tell them.
We just do the best we can with the tools we are given at the time, don't we? Sometimes it's not very good and other times we do alright. But, how important to apologize and ask forgiveness when we recognize our shortcomings.
I'm thankful for the conversation I was able to share with this beautiful lady today. I'm thankful that God placed me in a place to get lessons from those older than me all the time. (I think he knew I was a slow learner and needed a lot of guidance. smile)
I don't want to ever look back with regrets, either. I've done some pretty bone-headed things, for sure. Let's take care of what we can with regrets from the past and then move on.
Movin' on,
Lila
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Live Juicy
Here is another painting with a Sark expression. Sometimes the people who inspire the paintings are an amalgam of several different people. I painted this cute little lady without realizing she has a lot of our Activities Director in her. (I work in a retirement living community.) Renee lives juicy. She wears fun clothing and is always wanting to try something new. One of her children's friends told her she dressed like a French artist. She really does. Why say, "yes" when you can squeal, "oooo la la?"
Lila
Monday, August 30, 2010
Isn't it Wiggy?
I just love made up words! But then again, isn't EVERY word a made up word? Sark is an artist extraordinaire and a unique individual. She comes up with some very wiggy words. (smile)
What does wiggy mean? I don't know. What do you think it means? It's a happy word, though. Of this, I feel certain. tee hee!
I've named this cute gal Zinnia. Her hair is tousled like a zinnia going in a lot of different directions. Her clothing is subdued, but then she pops out with something like, "Isn't it wiggy?" Zinnia makes me smile. I hope she makes you smile, too.
Wiggified,
Lila
Monday, August 23, 2010
Blind People Don't Like to Skydive
If you first see this, you may think it a bit irreverent until you learn the joke was told by a blind person.
“Blind People Don’t Like to Skydive”
I heard Jody Urquhart at a conference on laughter
in the workplace. She shared this saying with a
deadpan expression and there wasn’t a dry eye in
the house! Everyone laughed!! She went on to say that a blind friend
of hers had shared this joke. If we can’t laugh
at ourselves, we’ve lost the game of life.
Collage by
SUSAN CONWELL, Artist
dba Lila’s Journey
Lighten up,Lila
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
LAMB
I love the sayings our daughters come up with. Our daughter Caroline often talks about friends she knows and loves, then says, "What a lamb." I love that! I love that she is so affirming of her friends and others. It's because of Sweet Caroline that I painted this lovely Lamb.
I aspire to be a lamb. Willingly following my good shepherd - - you know the one who laid his life down for his sheep? He's worth following.
Oops! I just noticed Lambie is a little crooked in her frame. Ah well, what a lamb!
I am a sheep and he is the shepherd,
Lila
Lila
Thursday, July 29, 2010
ONE OF GOD'S MOST GLORIOUS CREATIONS - A WEE BIRD
When I was growing up our breakfast table looked out on the flower garden with the bird bath in our back yard. My parent's designed the house with the breakfast nook to have the big window view of the yard. It was at that table that I learned about the different birds, their habits, their songs and of course their names.
Of all the beautiful birds we witnessed through the years, I remember my mom telling me the little wren was her favorite. I always wondered why. It was so - -brown. It wasn't vivid like the cardinal or blue jay.
But, now, I think I too favor the wren. I love it's jaunty little tail feathers. While he is unassuming, his markings are beautiful. When I watch them I see their over confidence. They always have a beautiful song on their heart.
If you are interested in this little wren, you can reach me at journeysinn@gmail.com.
With a song in my heart,
Lila
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)