Rain Rain Don't Go Away...

I think most people would describe the weather here in Franklin, TN today as ... "crappy". "Crappy" because the rain and expected tornado watches probably inconvenienced the crowds attending the marathons and festivals today.
But as for me, I LOVE the stormy weather. It was the perfect excuse to stay inside (yes, in PJ's) aaalllll day! But the best part was I got some time to paint. Not for the cards, or a special request for someone, it was just for me. I needed a new painting to accompany the new bedspread I bought last night... so there ya go! There was my productive Saturday. :-)
And for the inspirational part of this blog, I gotta say I love the rain for another reason. I love rain, wind, and thunder because its such an awesome example of God's power. The storms can be intense, but afterwords, there is always light, growth, and a calming sense of peace. No matter what storms you are going through in life, just sit back and know that God will bring forth something positive into your life.  Most of the time, the outcome that God delivers strongly outweighs those stormy times.

A little Disney Magic....

Welcome back!....As you may have noticed the blog got a new make over recently. I thought it would be nice to add a little something new, as we prepare for a new season. Hope everyone enjoys the new color scheme, the blog posts, artwork, and of course the new little Koi Fish pond on the left hand side.

Late last night I returned from a week long trip to Florida. Aside from being severely sick half way through the trip, it was refreshing and inspiring to see some family, friends, and college buddies.
I even went back to my old university (Univ. South Florida). It was kinda cool to walk around campus again, the place that was 'home' during my early 20's.

I ventured back to the old fine arts building and was hit really hard (in a good way) with reality. I had spent so much time, money, energy, materials, and thoughts in that building. I worked so hard to learn as much as I could, working towards my life long dream to pursue art. And every year, I couldnt wait until I'd graduate so I could be done with classes, and be able to do my thing. Well...that was over 3 years ago...and everyday since, I've been working hard trying to do the best at the job Ive been blessed with, working hard to pay bills, working hard to challenge myself....leaving very little time for the one passion that God had instilled in me a long time ago. You always think "when I have a little time off Ill get to that" or "maybe this weekend after all my responsibilities are done, I can finally get to do it"... and eventually life ends up passing you by. I dont want to be 60 or 70 and realize that Im running out of time. Yes, we need to live responsibily, but if God plants a dream in our hearts, isnt it our responsibility to pursue it, give it everything we've got, and trust Him to make that dream blossom.

I was fortunate to spend some time at Disney this weekend (thanks to a very generous friend- Thanks Laura!!!) You gota love the colors, the music, the designs, the fun, and the 'magic' at Disney World....but I also was inspired by some quotes that were posted on the walls of the park by Walt....

"All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them"

"The way to get started is to quit talking and begin doing"

"When you believe in a thing, believe in it all the way, implicitly and unquestionable."

Just a few things to keep in mind. :-) As for me, I promise to try and post more inspirational blogs more often, as well as new artwork and cards. I have some cool things to share with you all soon regarding my site.

Thanks for everyone's support and love! 

Alyssa and I back at USF