I'm Back For The Summer!

It's been over a year since I last posted on my blog.  Although I had to cut back on my art production and cut my blogging completely, I have a legitimate reason.  I'm on a blessed life-changing journey!

Happy Anniversary, Lisa!
Tim Holtz Dies, Stamp, Tissue Paper, & Distress inks; Baker's Twine; Assorted Papers; and More
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - All Things Bright and BeautifulSimon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - Anniversary; and Word Art Wednesday #338-#339

For several years, my wife Lisa and I have been talking about me going to an Episcopal seminary.  I even had a conversation about it with our Diocesan Bishop during one of his visits to our Church.  However, the need for a steady income, putting two girls through college, the possible need for us to relocate closer to a seminary, and other issues did not make it feasible.  Then, on November of 2016, when our Bishop was in town, he called to meet with me.  The Diocese was starting a bi-vocational program, and he wanted me to pray about being a part of it.

Albert Einstein - "The true sign of intelligence is not knowledge, but imagination."
Pens, Pastels, Collaged Papers, and Markers
Paint Party Friday: Week 14, Year 8

I agreed, and this led me to go through what is called a discernment process.  Prayers, meditations, retreats, lots of writing, and interviews with a diocesan committee were all part of the process.  After several months, I was accepted.  It is a 3 year program that will allow me to continue to work in the field of education, and I just completed my first year last weekend.  The classes take place once a month in San Antonio, Texas, which is about 2 1/2 hours from where I live.  I study the units during the month and meet with the professors for 2 days once a month for class discussions.

Episcopal DWTX Camp Capers Garden, Comfort, Texas
Nikon D-3300 Photography
Image-in-ing

It been hectic, especially since I was also promoted to assistant principal in my school district last summer.  Between my in depth studies in Theology and training for an administrative position, it's been stressful trying to balance other aspect of my life.  However, I am working under a supportive principal, and most importantly, my family has been behind me every step of the way.  In the words found in Proverbs 3:5–6, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding. Acknowledge him in all your ways, and he will make your paths straight."

Therefore, please accept my apologies for my absence from blog-land.  I can't wait to catch up with all of you this Summer.  Blessings to all!

Comments

A very beautiful comback! Hope to get to see more of your talent tin the future! Love the mix of elements and color on your card!
Thank you so much for playing along with us at the Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge! /Karin
Christine said…
Lovely card! Good luck on your path.
sirkkis said…
Hello Arnoldo! It is amazing to read how wonderful life you are living. So much activities and successful achievements.
Congratulations!
Your art is awesome and beautiful and words always wise.
Thank you for visiting my blog and the kind comment.
Happy time to you and yours 🌸
Linda Kunsman said…
how wonderful to see you back Arnoldo- I have missed your art and beautiful blogging style! And what a journey you have been on... congratulations on your great achievements. God placed you where you are meant to be to serve better. Beautiful card- love the colorful bird, and a sweet illustration and quote. Happy PPF!
Beverley Baird said…
What a hectic, but fulfilling life you have had. All the best as you pursue this new challenge. Love your artwork.
It is wonderful to see your work again and what a wonderful post to tell us of your journey! I love to see dreams come true and I'm happy that you are able to work toward something that has meant so much to you for so long. It's always a treat to see your work as well and I love how inspiring it always is!
Barbara said…
What a pleasure to see your work! Happy you're back! Love love love this card, I adore the way you use pattern paper for the bird! fabulous design too! Thanks for joining us this week on Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge Blog! Barbara
Esther Asbury said…
Love the paper you used on your bird and all the elements you pulled together into the happy anniversary collage card for your wife.

I'd like to invite you to link this up to Cropstop Blog Challenge where it's always "Anything Goes" as long as you use a product or two from one of the companies they carry in the store. (You did!)
https://cropstop.blogspot.com/search/label/link%20party
DVArtist said…
You and your art have been missed. However, your path seems set and life sounds good for you. May it all continue with blessings.
Beth Niquette said…
What an interesting adventure. I adore your artwork--and yes, I noticed you were posting your art. Glad to see you back.
glitterandglue said…
Morning Arnoldo. I was only thinking the other day that I hadn't seen you around WOYWW for a long time - now I know why - and what an amazing reason behind your absence! May Father God bless y9ou as you follow His pathways for you and your family. I love that photo of the celtic cross in the sunlight!
Take care. God bless.
Margaret #1
So incredibly glad to see you on WOYWW again. What a blessed journey you have been on, and one you can be very proud of. Thanks for visiting me earlier. Happy WOYWW from # 6.
Hazel said…
Good to see you back ... and what a journey. GLad you quoted that scripture. Thanks for sharing today - Hazel, WOYWW 472 xx
Lunch Lady Jan said…
It's lovely to see you back Arnoldo and many congratulations on your training - it takes a big leap of faith to take such an unknown step. I'm so glad it's all working out for you!
Hugs LLJ 10 xxx
Sarah Brennan said…
How great to have you back for the summer Arnoldo. I'm not surprised that blogging has had to go for a while. Good luck with your training, both administrative and theological and happy WOYWW. Sarah #16
Esther Asbury said…
Thanks for linking up to Cropstop - I hope you'll join us again soon!
Nice to see you back on WOYWW - now that I think of it I realise you haven't been around for an awful long time, but sounds like you had a good reason. Love the anniversary card and that Einstein quote - hope to see you again soon! zsuzsa #22
Lillianb said…

Happy WOYWDW

So glad life is good you. Take everything as it comes and enjoy,

Lilian B #17
So good to read that you are well and that life gifted you with this new great chance! All the best for you ! I really missed you in blogland and ofthe thought that I hope you are just well and busy!
Your wonderful art is always a pleasure for me to look at!I love the A.Einstein quote with this AMAZINg critter, how about linking to AJJ /Inspired by? Would be a pleasure for us there to have you with us!
Have a great summer!
Hugs, Susi
SumBunneh said…
It sounds like you are on an amazing journey and I am pleased to see that art has a place along the way.

I hope each step brings you closer to what you wish to find. Keep inspiring.

Sumbunneh hugs x
Erika #13
Hi Arnoldo, nice to see you back we've missed you! Sounds like you've been having an interesting year. Have a great woyww and happy crafting, Angela x18x
Joyfulartist said…
When life is full, when you add something, you must choose something to let go of. That's just the way it works when we are living in space and time. Just think, someday we won't be confined to space and time...mind bogling isn't it? Now that you have temporarily have set aside administrative work, you can enjoy your art again. Nice to see you back on the blog.
Thank you for joining us at Art Journal Journey Arnoldo! We are happy to have you with us again! Much appreciated!
Blessings!
Susi
Lovely post and fabulous artwork - the Einstein quote is great.
Thanks for sharing and linking to AJJ.
Have a wonderful summer..
best wishes Gill
Dorlene Durham said…
Welcome back! What a great journey you are on. It's so important to have great support and it looks like you do. Your art is wonderful! Dorlene #30
Anonymous said…
Happy Belated WOYWW. Lovely to see you back in the world of WOYWW. You have certainly got a busy and very rewarding life. Fantastic artwork too. Ali x #11
That is a gorgeous piece to return to you blog with, and I'm delighted to hear about your good news. It's obvious that you're on a path with a heart, and I salute you, as pressed as you are with all aspects of your dream. Well done, my friend.
Irene Rafael said…
Hello, It is so nice to read your news. Congratulations on your acceptance to the program. I am sure that you add as much to the program as you gain from the teachers. It was a lovely treat to see your post!
~~ Irene
Create With Joy said…
Dear Arnoldo,

I've missed your visits (came by to see what you've been up to) and I"m THRILLED to hear about your spiritual journey! My husband and I have been praying about our future and the direction God wants us to go as well so we understand how important a step this is for you - I think Proverbs 3:5-6 has become my life verse!

I will keep you in my prayers as you seek God's will for you and your family and I can't wait to hear how things progress for you. As you share, please be sure to post at Create With Joy (and be sure to leave a comment so that I do not miss your post!)

Blessings to you!
Oh, how I've missed your art, Arnoldo. Absolutely wonderful, and thanks so much for sharing with us. I hope you're doing well.
Blessings,
Karen Letchworth
Word Art Wednesday
Jo Ann said…
Wow, nice card and a nice page. We are truly blessed that you joined our Challenge earlier this month at Word Art Wednesday. There's still time to join our current Challenge and we'd love to see back. Leaving you with the inspiration of God's Word found in Isaiah 43:10 which says, “You are my witnesses,” declares the LORD, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am he. Before me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me." Have a great day!

JO ANN
https://jatterburycreations.blogspot.com
Lisabella Russo said…
I am glad to see your art and glad that you are able to pursue a dream!