M is for Mysterious

Most Christians are probably familiar with the phrase, "The Lord works in mysterious ways."  The phrase is attributed to an English hymn written by William Cowper in 1774.  It is actually a misquote, since the verse was written as, "God moves in a mysterious way."  Although not actually found in Scripture, there are many Bible verses that may have inspired Cowper to write that verse.  The following are a few of them.

The Earth Laughs in Flowers
Pens, Watercolors, & Colored Pencils Illustration
Try It On Tuesday: Botanical
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches
Kristin & Eva's Paint Party Friday - Week 5 Year 7

According to James Hollomn, (Hymn's words are found in the link) it may have been drawn from Isaiah 55:8-9 - "For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways," declares the Lord.  "As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than yours ways and my thoughts than your thoughts."

Get Well, Monea!
Origami Greeting Card
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - Things With Wings
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - Anything Goes
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday - Week 274

Alicia Purdy, in Deseret News - Faith, believes the hymn alludes to the idea found in various Biblical verses, such as that in Romans 11:33 - "O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!"

A Mysterious Tour
Pen Sketch On a Mixed Media Background
Karen's Word Art Wednesday - Challenge #276-277
Art Journal Journey - Magical Mystery Tour
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday 409

Although I have been involved in Sunday School, Vacation Bible School, and Bible Studies my entire life, I am no expert.  However, I found the words in Jeremiah 29:11 as a possible inspiration for the verse - "For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope."

Cushion Foxtail Cactus Trio - Indigenous To The Mojave Desert
Nikon D3300 Shot
Moo-Mania: In Triplicate
Sue's Image-In-Ing
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - Letter M

If you've never listened to this very inspirational hymn, you may listen to it at YouTube's channel, AHymn aWeek.  It was the last hymn Cowper wrote, whom apparently suffered with depression throughout his life.  May he rest in peace.  Thank you for taking the time to read my post, follow my blog, and/or taking the time to leave a comment.  Blessings!

K is for Knack, Knowledge, and Kinks

I was blessed to be born with a natural artistic knack, so I have always enjoyed music, dance, and the visual arts.  The latter was always encouraged and supported by my parents, and enhanced by the environment in which they reared me in.  Piano lessons, dance groups, and art lessons were all part of my upbringing.

80th Birthday Collage Card Design
Tim Holtz Classics #11 Stamp Set & Label stamp, Tattered Leaves Die, & Numbers Embossing Folder; Paper Scraps; Prismacolor Watercolor Pencils; Stamp Pads; Pens; K&Company Die; and Adhesives.
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - Layer It Up
Karen's Word Art Wednesday - Challenge #274-275
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday Week 273

Dad's 80th Birthday Collage Card Design
Tim Holtz Numbers Embossing Folder, Tattered Leaf Die, & Label Stamp; K&Company Dies; Dymo Labeler; We R Memory Keepers Stapler; Pens; Paper Scraps; Baker's Twine; and Adhesives.
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday #407

Although I still enjoy all these endeavors, I developed a special affinity to the visual arts early on.  Ever since I was a child, I remember being drawn to pencils, crayons, paints, papers, scissors, and other artistic materials and tools.  Even boxes, cans and other odd materials made it into my stash.  (I was re-purposing before it was in vogue!)  My mother even had me carry a few art supplies with me to keep myself entertained where ever we went.

Rick's Western Birthday Card Design
Tim Holtz Wild West Stamp Set & Scrollwork Die; Stamp Pads & Spray Inks; Wood Print Paper; Mini Brads; Yute Cord; Assorted Papers; Pens & More
The Male Room: Challenge #56 - Stash (Wood)

I learned a lot through my childhood art experimentation, which developed a thirst for knowledge in me.  I started of with children's art books, art classes, and even a correspondence course during my teenage years.  (The latter were the precursors to today's online classes.  Yes, I'm old.  LOL!)  When I went to college, I earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree, with a major in Advertising Art.  I even earned an art teacher certification eventually.

St. Patrick's Day Irish Blessing
Markers & Water Colors
Kristin & Eva's Paint Party Friday: Week 3, Year 7
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - Bit O' Green

A Kink In My Artjournal - Aargh!
Pastels & Charcoal
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - K is for Kink

Today, although I get occasional art consignments, I'm not working in an art field.  However, the skills I learned in art are an integral part of my daily professional life.  Creativity, planning, visual communication, and other skills I learned through my art training are part of my life as teacher.  Even when encountering kinks, I can rely on the problem solving skills I acquired.  Mistakes are made to embrace, as opportunities for innovation, or to learn from them.

Fruits, Flowers & Fire Arrangement
iPhone 6s Shot
Sue's Image-In-Ing

Therefore, I firmly believe that our knacks, knowledge, and kinks in our life's journey can most certainly help mold who we become.  This, of course is an ongoing process.  I even believe that the day I stop this process I'll probably die either spiritually and/or physically.  Anyway, I want to thank my followers, as well as everyone who takes the time to leave a comment.  Blessings!

PS - How do you like my new blog's look?  Any suggestions?  I'd love to hear what you think.

J is for Judicious, Jotted, Joy, Jaunty, & Jovial

As I mentioned during my last post, I am going through a judicious decision making process regarding my future.  Fortunately, there are no possible negative outcomes, I just like being in control of my life, and that's what is difficult for me.  However, I am surprisingly calm.  I know my family's support and prayers have been extremely helpful, but your gracious comments last week really helped too.  Thank you.

Anything Is Possible
Art Journal Page Using Sharpie's, Pens, and Oil Pastels
Lynn's Paper, Paint, Pencils, & Pens
Art Journal Journey - Out and About
Eva & Kristin's Paint Party Friday
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday 406
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday

Curiously, I found this quote last weekend, which I jotted down a while back, when clearing my desk.  It reads, "Trust the wait.  Embrace the uncertainty.  Enjoy the beauty of becoming.  When nothing is certain, anything is possible."  It's attributed to Mandy Hale, but may be anonymous.  It reminds me of Jesus' advice found in Mark 5:36, "Don't be afraid; just believe."  It certainly addresses my current life journey.

IC XC Banner
We R Memory Keepers Banner & ABC Punchboards, Elegant Font Punch, tissue paper; Martha Stewart Fringe Cutter; Tim Holtz dies, tissue tape; American Crafts Tangerine Embroidery Kit; assorted cardstock; glass beads, ribbon, jute twine, and more.
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - Handmade Flowers
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - For a Special Lady
Karen's Word Art Wednesday

I have also been praying and meditating through my artwork, but I do that regularly.  LOL!  I am blessed to have my artwork which brings joy to my life through all situations.  I made this banner with the monogram IC XC, which is Greek for Jesus Christ.  I surprised my wife with it to decorate our home during this Lent season and the upcoming Easter season.

The Jaunty Swan
Nikon D3300 Photograph
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - Letter J

Therefore, I'm moving on forward with a jaunty attitude, just like this swan jauntily gliding through the water.  Strong, self-confident, and distinct.  Isn't it glorious!  I took this shot during my last trip to Austin, Texas, at Lady Bird Lake.  My daughters took me walking there, and we were thrilled to find this beauty.  I was glad I had my Nikon with me.)

Anyway, have a jovial week, my blogging followers and friends!

I is for IDK

In texting, IDK stands for "I don't know," which is exactly how I feel these days.  I am in the process of discerning possible changes in my life, but there are so many variables to consider.  What makes matters worst, as is often the case, there are some that I have no control over.  Aargh!  That's what makes it even more difficult, since I am a perfectionist.  The latter doesn't only stifle me at times, but may cause some forms of anguish.  LOL!

I feel that there is nothing more truly artistic than to love people." - Van Gogh
Pastel & Charcoal Painting and Pen Lettering
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - Make Your Own Background
Word Art Wednesday: Challenge # 272-273
Kristin & Eva's Paint Party Friday Week 53 Year 6
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday

I am blessed and very thankful to have a loving family and friends that are supporting me through the whole process.  My wife and mother, as well as my daughters and priest, have been extremely helpful.  I don't know that I would be able to handle the whole process without them.

Treat Bag
We R Memory Keepers 123 and DIY Party Punch Boards, Basic Font Punch; Paper.
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday 405

Of course the presence of Lord has been eminent.  As found in Psalm 28:7, "The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me.  My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him."  He's been a part of every major change in my life, and I will continue to include Him until the day I die.

Sunrise At Corpus Christi's Shoreline
iPhone 6s Shot Edited on iPhoto
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - I is for Inspirational

How do you go about making decisions about major changes in your lives?  Anyway, I want to thank all my followers, as well as everyone who takes the time to leave a comment.  Blessings!

H is for Heartfelt

Last week my wife and I went to Corpus Christi, Texas, and stayed at a hotel by the harbor.  There, we attended the Episcopal Diocese of West Texas' 113th Council.  I was a one of the 3 elected delegates from my church, so it was a true honor, especially since I got to participate in the election of our new Suffragan Bishop, The Rev. Jennifer Brooke-Davidson.  The theme for this year's Council came from Revelation 21:5, "Behold, I make all things new."

Blue Heron Spotted During Morning Walk
Pencil Sketch
Art Journal Journey - Out And About
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday #404
Kristin & Eva's Paint Party Friday: Week 52, Year 6
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday

The theme was chosen by our Bishop Coadjutor, David Reed, because he interprets "behold" as a word of hope and call to action for the Church in church matters and in the world.  He sees Revelation as a call for us to seek "real life and peace and healing" during our times of "pain, sin, confusion, division and hopelessness."  "The future fulfillment envisioned and promised in Revelation bends back upon present times, shedding light, transforming lives, sending us into our communities and our culture."

"Real isn't how you are made.  It's a thing that happens to you."
From THE VELVETEEN RABBIT By Margery Williams
Tim Holtz Mini Bunny & Oval Dies, dotted lines embossing folder, & distress ink pads; ATC Card; Pressed Petals Cardstock; Ribbon, Pompom & Bead; Micron Pen
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - Anything Goes
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - Based On A Book
Karen's Word Art Wednesday - Weeks #272-273

Therefore, although they were long days of meetings, reports, elections, and other church business, I found comfort and strength in the underlying message.  I realized that even if it's not much, my humble words and actions to benefit others can make a difference.  Rather I share inspirational posts and artwork through social media, take communion to the sick, work with my students, help with community events, etc, I can contribute to the welfare of my family, community, and the world at large.

Corpus Christi Harbor
iPhone 6s Shot Edited on iPhoto
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - Letter H

I hope this summary of my experience inspires you to take charge and make a difference in this world, no matter how small a task that may be.  A simple smile can make a world of difference, so pass it on.  Anyway, I want to thank all my followers, as well as everyone who takes the time to leave a comment.  It truly means a lot to me.  Peace - Paz - Shalom!

G is for Green

Do you like the color green?  I do, so I have army green pants, various shades of green shirts, sweaters, a pair of Doc Martens boots and a pair of lime green Crocs' loafers.  Even three of the cars I have purchased throughout my lifetime have been various shades of dark green.  I find it so energizing, that I even married a green eyed Irish descendant girl.  LOL!

Live quietly... see the Beauty... The future will take care of itself.
Charcoal, Pastel and Pen Calligraphy Fashion Illustration
Karen's Word Art Wednesday Challenge Weeks #270-271
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday 403
Kristin & Eva's Paint Party Friday: Week 51, Year 6 Check-In
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday - Week 269
Moo-Mania: Handpainted

In basic color theory, green is a secondary color formed by combining the two primary colors yellow and blue.  Tertiary variations can be made by increasing or reducing either primary color to form the spectrum from yellow-greens to blue-greens.  Values in the color green refer to the degree of light or dark between the extremes of black and white. A tint moves toward white, while a shade moves towards black.  In addition to color theory, which can get baffling, green can be symbolic as well.

Scenic Route Journey
Tim Holtz Mini Tattered Flower and ATC Dies, Tiny Things Stamp, and Tissue Tapes; K&Company Cardstock and Embellishment; EKSuccess Punches; Vintage Button; and Cord
The Male Room: Challenge #54 - Wheels
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - Fantastic Florals
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - Transport It

As the color of grass, trees and plants, as well as of emeralds, it is usually associated with nature.  Therefore, it generally symbolizes life, health, and used to represent Mother Nature.  In the liturgical calendar of Catholic and Anglican churches, it symbolizes the Holy Ghost, life eternal, and hope, so it is used to drape altars during Epiphany and "Ordinary Time" after Pentecost Sunday.  However, darker shades may symbolize negativity, as in rotting vegetation, decaying meat, and being "green with envy."

Herbs For Sale
iPhone 6s Shot Edited on iPhoto
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - G is for...

So rather you like green or not, it is definitely more than just a color.  I didn't even go into it's significance to other religions, cultures, and various countries' flags.  Anyway, I want to thank all my followers, as well as everyone who takes the time to leave a comment.  It truly means a lot to me.  Blessings!

F is for Family & Friends

I love my friends and family, and value the time I spend with them.  As an introvert, I don't have a lot of friends.  However, I fully trust the few I have, so I don't only enjoy the conversations and laughter we share, but the ability to talk and/or listen to each other during our times of hardship.  Family is most important to me, although I have to admit there are some that I'm most closed to than others.  However, we all love and care for each other, as well as respect each others personal points of view in all areas.  I consider my wife not only family, but my best friend.  We know each others intimate secrets and desires, and we support each other in every decision we make.  We also cherish our daughters, and will go without, to ensure that they are well taken care of.  Anyway, in honor of St. Valentine's Day, I decided to share some quotes and scripture about love.

Paintbrush Fashion Illustration and Calligraphy Journal Page
Watercolors, Uniball Pens, and Pastels
Art Journal Journey - Fifty Shades of Red

The opposite of Love is not hate, it's indifference. - Ellie Wiesel

Paintbrush Doodling and Marker Calligraphy Journal Page
Watercolors, Uniball Pens, Zig Calligraphy Marker, and Pastels
Try It On Tuesday - Let's Get Messy
Kristin & Eva's Paint Party Friday - Week 50 Year 6
Karen's Word Art Wednesday - Weeks #270-271
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday #268

If you judge people, you have no time to Love them. - Mother Theresa

Ed Emberley Faces Inspired Doodles and Hand Lettering
Sharpie Markers and Uniball Pen
Roger & Denise's ABC Wednesday - Letter F
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday 402
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches

All Differences in this world are of degree, and not of kind, because oneness is the secret to everything. - Swami Vivekananda

Valentine's Day Card and Envelope
We R Memory Keepers 123 Punch Board & Frame Punch Board; EK Success heart punch; Martha Stewart Heart Punch; K&Company Embellishments; and Wax Seal
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - Use Your Favorite Tool (123 Punch Board)
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - Cute
Mrs. Dash Letter To My Best Friend - Week 1

Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her. - Ephesians 5:25

She Loves Me
iPhone 6s Shot Edited on Instagram
Our Beautiful World: OBW 186~Love

Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you: love her, and she will watch over you. - Proverbs 4:6

May you all cherish your friends, and especially your family, if you are blessed with one.  I also want to thank all my followers, as well as everyone that takes the time to leave a comment.  Blessings!

E is for Eccentric

According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary on-line, eccentric refers to "deviating from an established or usual pattern or style," as well as, "deviating from conventional or accepted usage or conduct especially in odd or whimsical ways."  Although most would consider me a moderate conservative due to my values and views, I am an eccentric when it comes to my artwork, style and faith.

Soul
Mixed Media Art journal Page
Kristin & Eva's Paint Party Friday Week 49 Year 6
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday - Week #267

Just like Noah, I let the Lord guide my work - artwork to be exact.  (Think about it, Noah's contemporaries probably thought he was an eccentric when he was working on the ark for the "flood" to come.)  The Lord's guidance may come to me through a piece of scripture or virtuous quote; a nature walk or time spent with loved ones; or simply through a serendipitous moment.  If I just let go and believe, God will lead me to produce work that is pleasing to Him.

Love You Forever
Tim Holtz Skull & Mini Antlers Dies, Distress Ink; EK Success Heart Punch; Martha Stewart Heart Punch & White Ink Pad; Baker's Twine; Uniball Air Pen; Cardstock; and Rhinestone.
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge - Young At Heart
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge - The Color of Love
Try It On Tuesday: Hearts and Flowers

As to my style, I take my lead from John the Baptist, who was known for wearing clothes "made of camel's hair, and... a leather belt around his waist."  A very eccentric outfit for his time.  I'm not that wild, but people never know what to expect from me.  I have a variety of shoes from Sperry Top-siders, to Doc Marten boots, to ostrich cowboy boots; a collection of hats that includes caps, fedoras and more; and love polos, Hawaiian shirts, and bow ties.

Serendipitous Smiling Burger
iPhone 7 Shot Edited on Instagram
Our Beautiful World: OBW 183~Yummy

Last, but not least, I relate to the Disciple Peter when it comes to my faith.  Just like him trying to be different from the other disciples by walking on water towards Jesus, I've taken eccentric leaps of faith.  These leaps led me to marry my wife, be a successful educator, as well as grow in my knowledge and love of the Lord.  (Unfortunately, just like Peter, I have sometimes found myself denying Him through my thoughts, words and actions.)

Blessings!
Sketches Pro App Digital Artwork
Karen's Word Art Wednesday - Challenge Weeks 268-269
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - Letter E
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday #401

Therefore, I don't think being eccentric is a bad thing.  As composer Franz Schubert once said, "There are two contrary impulses which govern this man's brain - the one sane, and the other eccentric.  They alternate at regular intervals."  That's me!  Anyway, have a blessed week.

B is for Believe

Yesterday, here in the United States of America, we remembered Martin Luther King Jr., the American Baptist minister who lead the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950's and 60's.  Influenced by Mohandas Gandhi's non-violent manner, his involvement in the civil protests began in 1955, with the Bus Boycott in Montgomery, Alabama, and continued until the day he was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1968.  Other than helping the end of segregation in buses, King pursued the end of segregation in public schools, the protection from police abuse, the acquisition of laws to prevent discrimination in employment, and the protection of voting rights for minorities.  The Civil Rights Act was passed in 1964, which led to him receiving the Nobel Peace Prize.  The following is a quote from his acceptance speech:

  

Blessings and Happiness - Year of the Rooster Tag
Original Hand Carved Stamp Over A Mixed Media Tag & Chinese Calligraphy
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday #264
Simon Says Wednesday Challenge - Winter Birthday
Try It On Tuesday - Anything But Square

"I refuse to accept the view that mankind is so tragically bound to the starless midnight of racism and war that the bright daybreak of peace and brotherhood can never become a reality... I believe that unarmed truth and unconditional love will have the final word."

Creative Ideas Inspire
Hard Pastel Sketch, Doodling & Hand Calligraphy
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - B
Kristin & Eva's Paint Party Friday: Week 46 Year 6
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches

His words are as relevant today as they were back then.  Although we have come a long way in this country, lately I believe we may be regressing.  There is just so much division, misunderstanding, and senseless violence going on by all factions in our country.

Thinking Of You Card
Tim Holtz Mini Tattered Flowers Die, Tiny Things Stamp, & Simple Sayings Stamp With Various Card Stock Scraps
Karen's Word Art Wednesday - Challenge Weeks #266-267

There's a plethora of reasons for our problems, but one of them is our deteriorating communication. With all the forms of communication available, we should be doing better. However, news outlets and social media are actually aggravating the situation.

Here You Go, This, That & The Other
Smash Book Page With Various Embellishments & Tapes
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge: Chill Out
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday 398
Art Journal Journey - Tell Me A Story

I value freedom of speech, but we need to be responsible when exercising this freedom.  This is of utmost importance to the news media, from liberal to conservative, who are sometimes responsible for the spread of propaganda.  Social Media aggravates the situation, because some people on both sides spread it, along with hateful commentaries.

If I Would Only Use My Old Bike I'd Be In Better Shape
iPhone 6s Shot Edited On iPhoto
Our Beautiful World: OBW 180~Bicycle

In my humble opinion I believe we need to scrutinize everything we read, as well as consider multiple sources of information.  We need to consider multiple perspectives, and be aware that we can't believe everything that's out there.  I also believe that we need to be careful with our words and practice the Golden Rule, as found in Matthew 7:12, "do unto others as you would have them do unto you."  If you don't agree with a political or other point of view, discuss it if appropriate, but don't use derogatory terms.  The latter is hurtful to others and propagates further division.  So yes, I believe in Martin Luther King's words, but it's going to take a conscious effort on our part to make it happen.  Peace!

A is for Agape

According to the Merriam Webster Dictionary, "agape" is a word of late Latin and Greek origin, meaning literally "love."  To be exact, it refers specifically to brotherly love.  In that vein, I found several verses about agape love that I though are worth sharing:

Virgen de Guadalupe on a Stained Glass Window at the Mo Ranch Chapel
Sennelier Soft Pastels and Acrylic Paint on Strathmore Pastel Paper
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday
Eva & Kristin's Paint Party Friday: Week 45 Year 6
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches

"'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.'  All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments." - 1 John 4:8.

Wedding Anniversary Card
My New Tim Holtz Window/Window Box & Tiny Tattered Floral Dies, Pediment Die, embossing folder, arrow, & game piece; We R'Memory Keepers Alphabet Punch boards; and various other materials
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge: Be Square
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge: New Something
Karen's Word Art Wednesday: Anything Goes Weeks 264-265

"I believe much trouble and blood would be saved if we opened our hearts more." - Chief Joseph

The Woodlands' Fountain Lake in Tyler, Texas
Nikon D3300 Shot Edited On Instagram
Our Beautiful World OBW 179 ~ Light
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday 397
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday 263

Hatred does not cease by hatred, but only by love; this is the eternal rule. - Buddha

In closing, I want to thank all my blogging friends and followers, as well as everyone who takes the time to leave a comment.  You motivate and inspire me.  May agape love be the driving force in all your thoughts, words, and deeds.

A "Z" Post

Happy New Year!  In case you hadn't noticed, I have had ZERO posts since November 22, 2016, making me absent from blogland for 6 weeks.  This doesn't mean that my art production was ZILT, it's just that I've had a ZILLION other things going on.  First of all, I had the a couple of extracurricular commitments at school that consumed a great deal of my time.  In addition, the ZIZZLING Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations with family, friends and coworkers kept me extra busy as well.  Although I enjoyed all the ZEZTY foods, it was emotionally draining for an extrovert like myself to be around so many people on a continuous basis.  To make matters worst, I ended up with a cold which led to a sinus infection that left me feeling like a ZOMBIE.  Anyway, below are a few of the artsy things I worked on during the last 6 weeks.  Hope you have a ZINGY new year!

Birds Inspired By A Bird Photographic Session
Etegami Using a New Set of Watercolors I got at Simon Says
Simon Says Stamp Monday Challenge: Start Afresh
Julia's What's On Your Workdesk? Wednesday #396
Eva & Kristin's Paint Party Friday: Week 44, Year 6
The Male Room - Anything Goes
Ramona's Inspire Me Monday - Week 262

George Michael Memorial & Positive Thinking Response
Pen Sketch & Sharpie Marker Doodling
Art Journal Journey - Tell Me A Story

Cards Using Prints Of An Original Christmas Illustration
Original Done in Pen and Watercolors
Alexandra's Sunday Sketches

Dia de los Reyes (Magi Day) Cards
We R Memory Keepers Alphabet Punchboard and Holiday Font Punch; Tim Holtz Crown Die & Distress Sickles; Assorted Cardstock; Pearl; and More
Simon Says Stamp Wednesday Challenge: Anything Goes

Advent Calendar
Kraft Drawer Chest; Assorted Christmas Papers; Assorted Tim Holtz Dies & Numbers; Assorted Martha Stewart Punches; and More
Karen's Word Art Wednesday

Christmas Tree Morning Coffee Moment
Formal Living Room
Denise & Roger's ABC Wednesday - Letter Z

Home Holiday Vignettes
Original Advent Calendar; Christmas Tree; and Gift Wrapping
Our Beautiful World: OBW 178 ~ Sparkle