J is for Journey

Although a journey is the act of traveling from one place to another, it is also often used figuratively to describe the passage of stages in life's events.

Paschal Sunday Matchboxes
Tim Holtz Mini Bunny & Ornate Cross Dies, Apothecary Stamps, Distress Ink Pads, Distress Crackle Paint, & Tissue Tapes;  Brother's Scan'nCut; Martha Stewart's Glue & Flocking Powder; DCWV Cardstock; UniBall Air Pen; Flower Embellishments; Ribbon; And Glass Beads & Rhinestones.
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - A Bit 'O Green
Anything But Cute: Challenge #11 Crazy For Colour
Karen's Word Art Wednesday #222
Easter Egg Ornaments or Picture Holders
Wooden Egg Forms; Acrylic Paint; Double Sided Tape; Embroidery Floss; Butterfly Glass Beads; Various Gauge Wires; and Cap Finding.
Try It On Tuesday - Nature
Our Beautiful World: OBW 138 ~ Easter
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday354
As a Christian, I observe Lent, which is a journey to repentance in preparation for the Paschal Feast (Easter Sunday).  By praying, meditating on God's Word, and practicing self-denial, I reach my destination in Him.  This is in imitation of the 40-days that Jesus was tested by the devil during his journey in the wilderness.  It is a reminder of Luke 4:8, "Worship the Lord your God and serve him only."  Hence the Easter eggs too, which are a symbol of renewal.

As an artist and writer, I am on a journey of experimentation and discovery.  Even when I have a vision, I don't make it exactly to my destination.  As I often say, "mistakes are opportunities for innovation."  In the words of American author, John Steinbeck, "A journey is a person in itself; no two are alike.  And all plans, safeguards, policing, and coercion are fruitless.  We find that after years of struggle that we do not take a trip; a trip takes us."

South Congress, Austin, TX, Journey
Nikon D3300 Shots
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday: J is for Journey
Sue's Image-in-ing
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday #220
As a family man, I also enjoy literal journeys with my family.  I always like to document them through my photography.  In my mind, the latter should always tell the story of the journey, so observation is keen and ongoing.  My goal is to capture the joy and wander we experience throughout the journey.  And in the words of American photographer, Imogen Cunningham, my favorite photograph is, "The one I'm going to take tomorrow…"

Hope you make the best of your life's journeys, regardless of where they take you.  Thanks for visiting my blog, joining my followers, and taking the time to leave thoughtful comments. Godspeed!

Comments

Mandy said…
Wonderful creations Arnoldo! They are all so unique, the little boxes have such lovely details and your picture looks amazing :)
Thanks for joining us at Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge
Mandy xx
March 15, 2016 at 7:50 PM
NCSue said…
Happy Easter to you! Thanks for joining in at http://image-in-ing.blogspot.com/2016/03/the-fight-continues.html
March 15, 2016 at 7:59 PM
zandra said…
Love the flocking on your bunnies. Thanks for playing with us at TIOT. Have a blessed Easter!
Hugz, Z
March 15, 2016 at 8:49 PM
Rajesh said…
Every day is a journey.
March 15, 2016 at 8:50 PM
likeschocolate said…
Love it! have a great week!
http://travelingbugwiththreeboys-kelleyn.blogspot.com/2016/03/baby-l.html
March 15, 2016 at 11:13 PM
Rika said…
Great Projects Arnold,
I love the matchbox.
March 16, 2016 at 12:00 AM
chrissie said…
Wonderful makes and pictures Arnoldo.

Thank you for sharing them at Try it on Tuesday

Have a wonderful Easter Time

Love Chrissie xx
March 16, 2016 at 2:56 AM
AppleApricot Wen said…
A beautiful and meaningful post, Arnoldo! I love the tradition of the Paschal Sunday matchboxes, I might try to remember that for our children. The painting is so gorgeous! Thank you for sharing with us at OBW, wishing you a peaceful Lent and a happy Easter!
March 16, 2016 at 4:51 AM
Bleubeard and Elizabeth said…
Although I came from Try it on Tuesday, I love everything, including the matchbox, the lovely eggs, and the flocking on the bunnies. Your Easter inspired post made me smile.
March 16, 2016 at 5:01 AM
MelodyK said…
Love at first sight with your purple eggs/card-photo-holders...
Beeing that my favorite colour (our livingroom is all about purple-lila and white)

A journey...life indeed it, i totally agree on that ;-)
Worth travelling, no matter how difficult at some times

Have a nice ABC-Wedneday-day / – week
♫ M e l ☺ d y ♫ (abc-w-team)
March 16, 2016 at 5:33 AM
Trubes said…
Hi Arnoldo,
Your words are so touching and oh so true,
I love the Easter Egg card holders they are really lovely,
Thanks for sharing your musings and just wonderful art work
with us, I really look forward to reading about your life each
week on ABCW ,

best wishes and blessings my friend
to you and yours,
Di,
ABCW team.
March 16, 2016 at 6:46 AM
Unknown said…
J is for journey and JOY! Which you put in my heart with your wonderful post!
March 16, 2016 at 7:18 AM
Murthy K v v s said…
Your blog is very interesting with special things...all the best.
March 16, 2016 at 8:12 AM
jill said…
A lovely collection of crafting projects & a pleasure to visit your blog . Happy woyww Jill #2
March 16, 2016 at 9:01 AM
carol l mckenna said…
All divine creations and love your post about the family and 'the journey' ~

Happy Week to you ~ ^_^
March 16, 2016 at 9:37 AM
Kelly said…
Good morning, Arnoldo! Lovely picture and cards. I really need to see if that bunny die matches the SU bunny stamp. So much easier than cutting him by hand hehe. Too many other projects waiting. Looks like a great outing in Austin. Not sure I'm making it to Texas this year but I'm still hoping. I don't get into Austin. I home base in Llano then travel to Burnett, Marble Falls, Fredricksburg. Creative Blessings! Kelly #53
March 16, 2016 at 10:17 AM
J said…
Hi Arnoldo, I love all your creations, especially the gorgeous egg card holders, my favourite colour.
Great photos too. Have a great weekend
Jan x. No 43
March 16, 2016 at 10:29 AM
glitterandglue said…
Some lovely photos and art pieces there Arnoldo. How true that the journey through life takes all sorts of twists and turns. It's good that we don't know what is coming next, as I think we may try to evade some of the turns. Life is full of seasons - and the season in our life at this time is very quiet, much time spent at home, as we treasure each day that Father God gives us together. Hubby was desperately ill just before Christmas. I sat with him one day as he confessed and made his peace with God and me - not expecting him to live beyond lunchtime that day. However - God thought differently - and whilst he still is not in "rude health" as we Brits would say, he is incredibly well. Thanks be to God for the walk we are on at this moment. (Have a peak back through my posts and you will see what has been happening)
Thanks for visiting already. I'm so glad you like that triangular box - it just struck me as a bit different, and ideal as a little gift for Neet.
Take care. God bless.
Margaret #16
March 16, 2016 at 12:18 PM
ToadilyDiane said…
So many different types of journeys going on. May you find each of the very fulfilling.
Have a great day.
Diane - WOYWW #32
March 16, 2016 at 2:10 PM
Diana Taylor said…
What a beautiful blog post - the little boxes are delightful, and I love your pastels and acrylics painting, it has a wonderful softness to it. Thank you so much for your visit to my blog and your kind words.
March 16, 2016 at 2:12 PM
Unknown said…
Arnaldo, The matchboxes are very creative with the the fun bunny outside and the Cross inside. Thank you so much for entering our AG FF challenge.
Blessings, Carole
Word Art Wednesday DT Member
March 16, 2016 at 2:39 PM
Sharon said…
What a wonderful post! I'm so happy you're sharing your work with us. It's lovely to look at. I love taking photos, documenting those memories that I treasure. I make my Mum a calendar featuring my kids and our adventures every year. I've been doing it for a long time. It's harder now that the kids are adults themselves, but looking back on them is a wonderful journey.

Have a great week
Sharon K #45
March 16, 2016 at 2:56 PM
Dreaming of Vintage said…
I love your beautiful art and posts Arnoldo! Both always cheer me up! Have a wonderful rest of the week!
March 16, 2016 at 3:24 PM
Anita Houston The Artful Maven said…
Wonderful post and gorgeous art. The cards are wonderful, and I LOVE the flowers in the vase. Gorgeous!
March 16, 2016 at 5:01 PM
Meggymay said…
A good post to read and see your wonderful projects. Thank you for sharing your work with us at TioT's this time.
Yvonne
March 16, 2016 at 5:04 PM
Unknown said…
Good evening and happy WOYWW. Just wanted to say your words trully inspired me and so fitting for the approaching Easter to enjoy life and the moments it brings. I am speechless with your projects you have shared makes me want to have my camera on me always to capture the beauty in everyday. Thanks for letting me peek. Have a wonderful weeks Hugs~Anne L #36
March 16, 2016 at 11:42 PM
Pawsitively Creative said…
winderful projects and your matchbox bunnies are a hit! What a fun and creative idea and that cross on the inside is stunning! Awesome sauce design and fantabulous colors!

Thanks for joining in our "Crazy for Colour" challenge at Anything But Cute! Hugz. ~Niki DT
March 17, 2016 at 1:50 AM
Vintagehandmade said…
Gorgeous makes! Thank you for joining in our Crazy For Colour challenge at Anything But Cute! Branka DT
March 17, 2016 at 1:54 AM
Roger Owen Green said…
our church has offered a Taize service each Wednesday (through yesterday) of this Lenten journey


ROG, ABCW
e
March 17, 2016 at 3:32 AM
Julia Dunnit said…
Yep, I would describe my journey as winding, for sure! Love the matchboxes .
March 17, 2016 at 4:09 AM
sarascloset said…
You always pack an amazing amount into your posts and today is no exception. I love all your artwork and photography and of course reading your text as well. Thank you for joining our Crazy for Color challenge at Anything But Cute with your sweet Easter bunny matchboxes. I can appreciate your symbolism and your bunnies are so sweet! Wishing you a wonderful Easter season! Hugs! Sara Emily DT
March 17, 2016 at 5:35 AM
Ann said…
Beautiful post about our journey to meet Christ one day. All your J's are wonderful.
Ann
March 17, 2016 at 8:42 AM
Valerie-Jael said…
Wonderful projects, thanks for joining us at TIOT, Valerie
March 17, 2016 at 10:58 AM
Reader Wil said…
Thank you for your post. It opens windows on our journey of life. We need this journey and learn to cope with all the problems on the way to our final destination. I always think of the Son of God who carried the tree of Life to that unholy terrible place of horror Golgotha. He showed us what we have to do during our journeys to the End.
I am grateful for the life I had, for surviving a concentration camp and for the fact that I feel no hatred any more. I learned this from the Lord's Prayer, which says that we have to forgive in order to be forgiven.
Have a great Lent and then a blessed Easter.
Wil, ABCW Team
March 17, 2016 at 12:56 PM
Su-sieee! Mac said…
You give me lots to think about with your words and quotes. All positive thoughts, of course. :-) Best wishes to you.
The View from the Top of the Ladder
March 17, 2016 at 3:55 PM
peggy gatto said…
I love your pastel!!!
And your inspirational words!
March 18, 2016 at 12:12 AM
Giggles said…
Such a beautiful post and I LOVE your painting..wow incredible. The Easter art is wonderful too...I really like those picture holders so sweet! Thanks for always sharing your great spirit in art and words!

Hugs Giggles
March 18, 2016 at 12:44 AM
Clare Lloyd said…
Lots of great projects
March 18, 2016 at 1:34 AM
Laila said…
Lovely art, I especially like your painting.It reminds me of the expression of some of the old masters. The easter egg or picture holder is fun also. Otherwise your words are important and it's constantly on my mind to do my best, whatever that might be.
March 18, 2016 at 2:42 AM
POINTYPIX said…
what a lovely post. I love the different connotations of Journey as we are on our own journey's through this life. Those little matchboxes are especially beautiful. Gorgeous photos as well - what a great quote.
Wishing you and your family a wonderful Easter.
March 18, 2016 at 3:07 AM
Tracey FK said…
Wonderful art, and photos... and words... I really like some of those quotes and have written the steinbeck one in my diary... it will be thought of all week... as will you be... xx
March 18, 2016 at 3:10 AM
sirkkis said…
Gorgeous art, Arnold.
Thank you for sharing your fab Easter Egg Ornament with us at TioT.
Happy PPF xx
March 18, 2016 at 3:19 AM
Ritu Dua said…
Beautiful as ever! Yes I agree with you and am on the path of savouring each moment of my life's journey ...loving what I do!! Gratitude is the key :)

http://beneathmyheartart.blogspot.in/2016/03/reflection-to-bestseller.html
March 18, 2016 at 3:26 AM
My name is Erika. said…
I love your explanation of Lent and Easter and that painting is fantastic. Happy weekend. :) And Happy PPF!
March 18, 2016 at 4:55 AM
Christine said…
Beautiful piece for lent with the somber purples.
March 18, 2016 at 7:35 AM
Faye said…
Thank you for your beautiful post, Arnoldo, reminding us of what Easter is really all about. Your art work, of course, is fantastic. Love the eggs. It is also good to think about life being a journey.
March 18, 2016 at 9:00 AM
Linda Kunsman said…
what sweet and creative Easter projects. Your charcoal and pastel painting is just gorgeous! Beautifully written post too. Happy PPF and have a wonderful weekend ahead.
March 18, 2016 at 11:43 AM
Julene said…
Your work is very reflective and your heart shows through. Thanks for sharing in this season of Lent! I join with you.
March 18, 2016 at 11:58 AM
Marjut said…
Beautiful works. Thank you for joining us at Try it on Tuesday.
March 18, 2016 at 3:17 PM
Dea Lenihan said…
How lovely Arnoldo! I collect crosses so of course my fave this week is the box with the cross. Thank you for sharing. Special stuff. xo
March 18, 2016 at 9:14 PM
Ros Crawford said…
Beautiful words and photos Arnold ... May your journey be a good one! Thanks so much for sharing at OBW!
March 19, 2016 at 7:26 AM
Maria Medeiros said…
I really love the ornament cross. really beautiful. Little decorated boxes are so beautiful! I love how you personalized them with the names. Such a special touch. The wooden eggs are beautiful and your still life is really lovely. Lovely photos of your family and your words are very powerful. I really like that "a journey is a person in itself; no two are alike." really amazing post. Happy Paint Party Friday! Blessings your way and have a lovely weekend!
March 19, 2016 at 8:31 AM
Irene Rafael said…
What beautiful reflections, photos and art. I always appreciate your heart-felt posts. Have a lovely week.
March 19, 2016 at 9:09 AM
Beth Niquette said…
As always I am always amazed by your versatile artistry. You are an inspiration.
March 19, 2016 at 1:20 PM
DVArtist said…
Hi. Happy Easter to you and your family. It is always such a pleasure to visit your blog to see what you have been up to. Ohhh creativity.
March 19, 2016 at 6:12 PM
Inky and Quirky Designs said…
Wow,loving all your creations,so hard to choose a favourite for this week though ;)
Hugs
Donna xxx
March 20, 2016 at 7:39 AM
April said…
Such lovely artwork. And what a beautiful way to describe life. The journey. :-) Happy Easter.
April #34
March 20, 2016 at 9:21 AM
SonjaK said…
Love your creations, especially the matchboxes!
March 20, 2016 at 9:58 AM
GalleryJuana said…
Wow, you really show all your talents in so many mediums with this post!
You are an inspiration!
March 20, 2016 at 10:25 AM
Deborah Wainwright said…
Hi Arnold, fab post. I appreciate your thoughts on journey and enjoyed your art. Debs
March 20, 2016 at 2:58 PM
Mrs.B said…
Wonderful projects, thanks for sharing with us at TioT
Avril
March 20, 2016 at 5:00 PM
Barbara Casillas said…
I like the Expressionist look and muted colors on your painting. Life, day to day, is a continual journey, that provides a lot of opportunities to grow. We just have to be open.
March 20, 2016 at 5:38 PM
Samra said…
Lovely work!
Thank you so much for joining our Crazy for Colors challenge at Anything But Cute!
Samra DT
Paper Talk with Samra
March 21, 2016 at 9:23 PM
Granny Annie said…
Wonderful journey!

EAGHL
March 22, 2016 at 5:47 AM
Alexandra MacVean said…
Arnoldo, I enjoyed your post and your Easter artwork. Fun matchboxes and absolutely loved your painting. Hope you're having a good week!
March 22, 2016 at 9:23 PM
Donna B. said…
Gorgeous painting! I love the colors and depth. Thanks so much for joining us this month at The Mixed Media Monthly Challenge.
March 26, 2016 at 4:00 AM
Karen Letchworth said…
Your projects are fabulous, Arnoldo. Thanks so much for sharing your amazing art with us at Word Art Wednesday. I wish you and your beautiful family a blessed Easter as you celebate His ressurection giving us eternal life. Thanks again for joining us.
Karen
Word Art Wednesday
March 26, 2016 at 12:43 PM
Ariadne said…
I loved all these little Easter boxes and details.Thanks for sharing with us in Our Beautiful World!Happy Easter!AriadnefromGreece!
March 27, 2016 at 3:01 AM
Unknown said…
Arnold, your "La Virgencita" On The Table, is just a beautiful piece of art. Stunning! Thank you so much for sharing with us at The Mixed Media Monthly Challenge!
March 28, 2016 at 6:14 AM
Melanie said…
I really love the still life painting. Thanks for playing along with the Mixed Media Monthly Challenge Blog!
March 29, 2016 at 5:18 PM
Astrid Maclean said…
Amazing paint work! Fabulous project!! I adore the colours you used! Thanks so much for adding it to our challenge at Mixed Media Monthly!
March 31, 2016 at 2:53 PM
Rachel said…
your painting is such a beautiful work of art. it's truly wonderful. i hope you and your family had a splendid easter. Thank you so much for playing with the Mixed Media Monthly Challenge!

-Rachel
rwkrafts.com
April 2, 2016 at 8:01 PM
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