Word for the week - Isaiah 40:31

But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.  They will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint... Isaiah 40:31

   Through reading the word we should be renewed on a daily basis.  What is it that you need to let go of that is sapping your strength and preventing you from soaring as the eagle?

As you meditate on the scripture and enjoy the image ask and think about the many gifts you have been given, the many challenges you face, and the fruit that will come from the work of your hands. 

Words and images for the week, to bless, encourage and inspire you to be all that you have been called to be. 

What will you do with what you have been given today?

Stay blessed and be a blessing

Gratitude's and Celebrations - Week 57 - Shine

Gratitude's and Celebration - Shine

Live your life and Shine!

How close to your purpose do you feel that you are?  Are there areas of your life that you feel that you haven't yet achieved that 'thing' or done all those activities on your 'to do' list.  We can chase after a number of different goals and dreams and still come up short, and I think it is because we don't commit and allow fear to creep in.  We wait for what we think we want without making a step, hoping to 'feel' great and then wonder why we reach a particular age and haven't done half of what we dreamed we would do.

Live your life...

Our life is meant to be lived, you are here for a purpose, and there are things that you want to achieve and know that deep down in your soul.  You have passion and drive for something, don't be afraid to step out.  When we hold ourselves back from achieving our purpose, and living the live we have been given to the full then we short change ourselves and others.  God didn't form and fashion you in your mothers womb to be stagnant and stay in the same place year in and year out.

He created your life to live to the full, to impact positively on other peoples lives, to be a blessing, but to also to be blessed yourself.  If you can't think of one thing to do then find someone to help until you work out where your passion lies.  Don't stand still!

I am grateful and celebrate life, we have the opportunity and ability to be amazing and do amazing things.....now it's your turn:)

I look forward to the journey and hope you come along and join me. Why not start your own journal, keep it as simple or complex as you wish, but do something!

Gratitude and Celebration Journal

Quote Wednesday - Jim Rohn

Character isn't something you were born with and can't change, like your fingerprint.  It's something you weren't born with and must take responsibility for forming

Jim Rohn

 It is important that we surround ourselves with encouraging and motivating words and that we strive each day to be the best that we can.  You have an opportunity today to be more than you were yesterday.  It might just be a small change and you need to own it, taking responsibility for every moment!

Each Quote Wednesday I share a quote with a photograph that I have taken.  Join me next week for the next inspiring quote and image.

Material Mondays - Quilted Art Wall Hangings

 Fabric Art

Beginning layers of paint are applied

About a couple of months ago I started some fabric art projects, that used  some quilting techniques, while including beading and other mixed media materials.  I have been quite pleased with them and shared them HERE.

I have been progressing with the fabric projects and produced one above and shared it in its early stages on my instagram account.  

I liked using the paints on the fabric and using colours some of which were my favorite.  I quite liked the piece as it was but wanted to add additional paints, and then incorporate beads and stitching within.

The paint and gave the figure a bit more form and as I continued a story began to unfold.

wall hanging as it progresses

The piece measures 22.5 cm by 23 cms and was the type of project that you couldn't complete in one sitting.  I loved adding the beading, and the hand and machine stitching.  In the background I used a variety of stencils and doodling with pens and metallic paint.  It is a great way to add additional colour and sparkle!

Here is the finished piece, I attached a willow stick to the back of the fabric and added a cord to allow it to hang

Adding the beads to the fabric was very therapeutic, having to take the time for each individual bead allowed me to think about the creative process and unwind.  I also visited the charity shop and got some jewelry and found some really lovely pieces that I will be using in future projects.

Every hand stitch and machine stitch was part of the creative process.  I used the machine as if using a pen, and allowed doodles to form on the fabric.

I allowed myself to experiment, there was no right or wrong just allowing freedom in expression...

I realize how much I enjoy making these wall hangings and will be making more and make some available for purchase.  I find that these mini wall hangings allow me to get involved in all the disciplines that I enjoy without it being a massive project, it also allows for stories to come forth - not only in words but in materials, patterns and color.

Get out your fabric and other supplies and see what you can come up with!  I would love to have your comments, blessings!