Inspired by...

Inspired by... true love

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 15:01:00 +0000

Inspired by... true love

I shared some "truths" with you last week. One of them prompted a response that has created some, well, difficulty for me.

At 40 I'm learning what true love really is...

This is true. But it's not a black and white statement. It has depth. Layers. Some of them joyful.

Some extremely painful.

But it's true. It's part of what I'm facing right now. And I was inspired to share it with you.

Using Kim Klassen's Happy Heart texture

"Love is patient and kind; love does not envy or boast; it is not arrogant or rude. It does not insist on its own way; it is not irritable or resentful; it does not rejoice at wrongdoing, but rejoices with the truth. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." (1Cor 13)

You can say these things about love. Believe these things about love. Try to live your life according to these truths about love. But, this side of heaven, we will fail. And people will fail us.

In both circumstances, it is my hope, that we learn a little bit more about what true love really is. Truly learn. As in: learning that changes thought and action. So that we make better choices, Godly choices in the words we speak and the things we do.

Certainly our failures have consequences. But there is forgiveness. And, by God's grace and mercy, we know that He will work even our failures (somehow in His awesome, powerful way) for our good and His glory.

Jesus is the perfect manifestation of 1 Corinthians 13.

Here's an example of true, selfless, love that I experienced this week:

Isn't he cute?!! He's a balloon penguin. Given to me by one of the young girls at my church. She's a sweet girl. I didn't ask her for him. But when she found out I collected penguins, she gave him to me.

It was more important for her to give, than to keep.

That's true love.

How are you experiencing true love in your life this week?

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... challenges

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Fri, 02 Mar 2012 03:05:00 +0000

Inspired by... challenges

Oh, there are SO many directions I could go with that lead in!

But for today, I'm sharing my submissions to Bonnie's Photo Art Friday, with this abstract:

...and Kim's Beyond challenge: Black and White with a Touch of Color

I was also inspired to make a new brush (as seen "stamped" on the images above). If you're interested, you can find Kim's tutorial here. I'm playing around with a new brush set. If all goes well I'll have a freebie for you next week!

Happy Friday, everyone! I'm babysitting twin 3yr olds tomorrow... so you may not hear from me again {smile}.

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... 10 Truths

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 15:32:00 +0000

Inspired by... 10 Truths

So what did everyone do with their "extra" day yesterday? Mine felt about like I'd packed a whole year into one day! At the end of the day I looked back and thought, "That was just this morning that I did that?!" Proof that even if I had 730 days in a year, it would probably not be enough.

I definitely need to work on being more intentional with the time God has given me! Amen?

I mentioned earlier this year that I'm participating in Kim Klassen's Beyond Layers Class. It's "a year of art full inspiration!" I'm really enjoying it, even though I haven't been able to participate at the same speed and level as the other participants. But with 52 weeks, there is definitely plenty of time for improvement!

This week's challenge was to share 10 Truths about ourselves and create a fun photo to go along. I decided to go with a collage or storyboard as my "picture", since that was a previous challenge I'd missed participating in.

I've never really been one of those introspective types, but, well, life changes you sometimes... I'm still working on Kim's "you in six words" challenge. Maybe by Christmas...

10 Truths About Me

1. Jesus is my best friend

2. I like to chase butterflies

3. Flowers make me happy

4. I like to be warm

5. I'm honest and try always to be kind

6. I love to cook

7. I like quiet

8. I like to read

9. I'm an author

10. I enjoy photography and other "creative" things

11. I'm a coffee snob... it doesn't have to be Starbucks, but it has to be good!

12. At 40 I'm learning what true love really is...

I followed Kim's example and listed more than ten. {smile} I could really identify with several of her "truths" and look forward to reading and learning more about the other participants. What a great way to get to know each other – thanks, Kim!

You don't have to be taking the Beyond Layers course to share 10 Truths about yourself! or even five! I'd love to know anything about you that you'd like to share, or maybe you identified with one of my truths?

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... white

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Mon, 27 Feb 2012 04:00:00 +0000

Inspired by... white

Hello everyone! I know all of you have had "one of those weeks" (years?!) at one time or another. Last week (year) was definitely one for me! Thanks for your patience with the infrequent blog posts. I'm hoping that improves significantly in March!

I also made a change to my blog address recently and hope I didn't lose anyone! If anyone reading this post got here through an email subscription, please drop me a comment or email! My redirect is showing as valid, but the previous site is coming up Not Found. Still trouble-shooting that situation...

Enough of the house-keeping, on to today's post.

This week's Texture Tuesday theme is centered around the color white. Since I posted about my beautiful white roses two weeks ago, and shared my wild rose gradient effect last week, I was running low on "white" material.

So, I decided to share with you some recent pictures I took in Johnson City, TX at the site of Lyndon Johnson's boyhood home.

Plaster-squared texture at multiply 100%

SOC

"For by him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or rulers or authorities—all things were created through him and for him." (Col 1:16)

Serious Magic texture, screen 100%

That last shot looks "seriously" tilted to me, but I've decided the bench is crooked and throwing off my perspective. What do you think? Crooked bench, or crooked photographer? {smile}

In closing, I had some fun with Kim's texture dream on this rock cliff across the highway from the Lake LBJ overlook.

Dream texture, color burn 100%, then another layer using multiply blend 100%

I enjoyed visiting the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park Visitor Center. The gallery exhibit is very well done. I look forward to returning in the spring to visit LBJ's ranch and Lady Bird's Wild Flower Center.

With all the rain we've been having, I'm hopeful for a vibrant Spring! If you're in the Texas Hill Country – stop by – it's worth the trip!

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... a wild rose

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 05:33:00 +0000

Inspired by... a wild rose

To me, there is nothing "common" about roses.

I love them.

They make me happy... {sigh}

This beauty was the perfect "model" for Kim's newest texture, Felicity. It also worked well for my attempt at this week's "Beyond" challenge: creating a painterly effect.

Featuring Klassen's sienna texture. Soft Light blend.

Attempting to create a "painterly affect"

This time I applied a cyan filter (50%) and then sienna texture, multiply blend mode 81%

This beautiful result appeared after applying a gradient map and then Kim's felicity texture, soft light blend mode, 100%

I'd love to hear what you think... and don't forget to check out all the amazing submissions at this week's parties. Just click on the links below!

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... Austen

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Sun, 19 Feb 2012 04:38:00 +0000

Inspired by... Austen

Fans of Jane Austin may remember that Edward Ferrars in Sense & Sensibility wore a ring, in which was set a lock of Lucy's hair. Despite the fact that it's Lucy's hair (not Elinor's), I find this uncommonly endearing.

How likely is the modern man to wear such a novelty? While I believe there are still plenty of romantic and sentimental men out there, the majority of the jewelry I found for sale on line that incorporated a loved one's hair was "memorial" jewelry rather than something worn as a show of present affection.

So what might be a better option for the modern man?

How about a key chain?

This was an easy project using scrapbook paper, modge-podge, dimensional magic and a lock of hair. I began by cutting out a small square of scrapbook paper.

Be sure to glue the paper down, or you can end up with bubbles when you add the dimensional magic. Next I added a lock of hair and applied a generous amount of modge-podge.

Warning: this step requires a bit of patience. At least the hair I used did. Let's just say all the strands didn't want to lay the same way.

Let the glue dry completely, before going to the next step. Once dry, add the dimensional magic.

No bubbles!

And once it dries...

Textured with Bonnie's Dappled Dawn

Romantic. Sentimental.

And one, I think, Miss Austen would find to be most sensible.

The perfect gift for the modern man!

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... happiness and a love letter

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Tue, 14 Feb 2012 15:46:00 +0000

Inspired by... happiness and a love letter

Happy Valentine's Day, everyone!

I have a special love letter for you {women} today. I didn't write it and can't remember where it originated, but it's too special not to share.

I'm also joining Kim Klassen's "happiness" party today. Sharing what makes me happy...

Flowers make me happy.

And knowing God loves me, unconditionally...

Me.

...makes me happy.

God's Love Letter to Women

When I created the heavens and the earth, I spoke them into being.

When I created man, I formed him and breathed life into his nostrils. But you woman, I fashioned after I breathed the breath of life into man because your nostrils are too delicate. I allowed a deep sleep to come over him so I could patiently and perfectly fashion you.

Man was put to sleep so that he could not interfere with the creativity. From one bone I fashioned you. I chose the bone that protects his heart and his lungs and supports him, as you are meant to do. Around this one bone I shaped you. I modeled you. I created you perfectly and beautifully.

Your characteristics are as the rib, strong yet delicate and fragile. You provide protection for the most delicate organ in man, his heart. His heart is the center of his being; his lungs hold the breath of life. The rib cage will allow itself to be broken before it will allow damage to the heart.

Support the man as the rib cage supports the body. You were not taken from his feet, to be under him, nor were you taken from his head, to be above him. You were taken from his side, to stand beside him and be held close to his side.

You are my perfect angel. You are my beautiful little girl. You have grown to be a splendid woman of excellence, and my eyes fill when I see the virtues in your heart. Your eyes - don't change them. Your lips - how lovely when they part in prayer. Your nose, so perfect in form, your hands so gentle in touch. I've caressed your face in your deepest sleep; I've held your heart close to mine.

Of all that lives and breathes, you are the most like me. Adam walked with me in the cool of the day and yet he was lonely. He could not see me or touch me. He could only feel me.

So everything I wanted Adam to share and experience with me, I fashioned in you: my holiness, my strength, my purity, my love, my protection and support. You are special because you are the extension of me.

Man represents my image, woman my emotions. Together you represent the totality of God. So man - treat woman well. Love her, respect her, for she is fragile. In hurting her, you hurt me. What you do to her, you do to me. In crushing her, you only damage your own heart, the heart of your Father, and the heart of her Father.

Woman, support man. In humility, show him the power of emotion I have given you. In gentle quietness show your strength. In love, show him that you are the rib that protects his inner self.

What makes you happy?

Blessings,

Textures: 1st photo: Klassen's phoebe texture, overlay; 2nd photo: Klassen's rejoice texture, multiply

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... Babylon

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 04:46:00 +0000

Inspired by... Babylon

If you know anything about Babylon, you know that it was a self-indulgent, materialistic culture. Daniel lived in Babylon (literally) and Noah lived in a culture very much the same. As, I believe, do we. I think we can learn a lot from these men about how to live in our culture, but be different from it. (Who says the Bible isn't relative to today?)

Our Pastor talked today about the challenge of Daily Surrender. His comments prompted me to ask myself the question, "Am I choosing to depend on God, daily?"

Daily. Every day. Not just when things go wrong.

Do I live by faith? or do I live by rote? (doing things systematically, in my own power, etc.)

What is my cross? and what does living by faith look like?

I think here in this country our cross is our over-indulgent, materialistic culture. We have to choose to die to self in so many ways, every day.

~~~When we are mistreated, we respond with faith, trusting God for the results. (1 Peter 2:22-23)

~~~When we are praised, we respond with faith, giving glory to God. (Prov 27:21)

~~~When we are tempted, we respond with faith, trusting God for the results. (1Cor 10:13)

It's not easy to respond with faith. And to do so, we must seek to live humbly and holy. The key word here is: seek

"And without faith it is impossible to please Him, for whoever would draw near to

God must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who seek Him." (Heb 11:6)

God will never refuse a heart that truly seeks Him.

Are you depending on God today?

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... looking up

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Tue, 07 Feb 2012 02:00:00 +0000

Inspired by... looking up

How often do you look up?

Is it only when you hear a plane? to check the weather? or roll your eyes heavenward?

Or do you look up seeking a new perspective? or inspiration?

Have you ever been walking along, having to watch your footing perhaps, and then suddenly looked up and been stunned by what you were missing?

“...no eye has seen, nor ear heard,
nor the heart of man imagined,
what God has prepared for those who love Him”—

I think it's easy, at times, for all of us to just go through the motions of life. Forgetting that God has created us with an eternal purpose. That He has given us time, talent and treasure here on earth to use toward that purpose.

What is your greatest dream? your deepest desire? what makes you happy?

I guarantee that God's purpose and plan for you is greater than your dreams, deeper than your desires and promises eternal JOY!

This week, I challenge you to...

LOOK UP

...look beyond the immediate task you're doing

...consider a greater dream

...a deeper desire

that God may be calling you to.

And, if you wish, tell me what you see.

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... love {freebie}

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 03:22:00 +0000

Inspired by... love {freebie}

It's time for another {free} computer desktop and what better theme for February than cherish? This month's desktop features Dancing Princess Design kits:

Red Hot Valentine

and Sweet Nothings

You can download two sizes of this {free} desktop here.

So what does it mean to cherish someone?

Main Entry: cher-ish

Pronunciation: ‚cher-ish, ‚che-rish

Function: transitive verb

Etymology: Middle English cherisshen, from Anglo-French cheriss-, stem of cherir to cherish, from cher dear, from Latin carus — more at CHARITY

Date: 14th century

1 a : to hold dear : feel or show affection for <cherished her friends> b : to keep or cultivate with care and affection : NURTURE <cherishes his marriage>
2 : to entertain or harbor in the mind deeply and resolutely <still cherishes that memory>

Source: Merriam-Webster

Cherish is an action word and definition "b" really speaks to me. Imagine if we really worked to cultivate care and affection (in appropriate amounts, of course) in all our relationships?

Hmmm, I'm thinkin' cherish might be a good one-word-goal for 2012!

What do you think?

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... beauty

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Tue, 31 Jan 2012 01:00:00 +0000

Inspired by... beauty

I've found it!

100% guaranteed, anti-aging miracle and you'll never guess where...

...in God's word...

mouse over for original

... or what...

...a gentle and quiet spirit.

"Do not let your adornment be external... but let it be the hidden person

of the heart, with the imperishable quality of a gentle and quiet spirit,

which is precious in the sight of God."

When we adorn (put on) ourselves with a gentle and quiet spirit, God's word tells us that it will never age, never see decay.

So what is a gentle and quiet spirit? Does that mean we act like a wall-flower? or a door-mat? No.

Our spirit (as referred to here) is the power by which we think, feel and decide.

A gentle spirit describes a spirit of meekness, not weakness.

Meekness is "power controlled".

Consider this: Jesus was described as being meek.

A quiet spirit describes a calmness, a tranquility. We can ask ourselves: Does my presence comfort and soothe others? Are others able to be calm around me?

The adornment of a gentle and quiet spirit is precious in the sight of God. It is of surpassing value. Value that will never fade.

This Word is for every woman, regardless of your personality traits and can be achieved

"Charm is deceptive, and beauty if fleeting; but a woman

who fears the Lord is to be praised."

*****

A big thank you to my Pastor's wife, who lovingly shared these insights which God had given her with us this past Sunday.

The photo (above) is textured with Kim Klassen's simplicity texture, which I think fits the commentary rather well. I encourage you to check out all the amazing contributions to this week's Texture Tuesday party, as well as the other inspiration linked below.

Blessings,

Oops! Forgot to include the screen shot for you texture lovers!

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... change

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Sat, 28 Jan 2012 03:17:00 +0000

Inspired by... change

I think pretty much everyone reading this would agree; if there is one thing we can count on in life, it's change.

For most of us, change is usually... uncomfortable.

It kicks us out of our comfort zone. Even change that is immediately perceived as "good" can stretch and challenge us.

And change that results in adversity and trials... well... we always have a choice in how we respond.

We can let them make us bitter... or better.

Like the oyster that wraps that irritating piece of sand in layer after layer of beauty, ultimately producing a pearl, my hope would be that we all make the choice to be better.

I'm a little late with my Photo Art Friday submission this week. But better late than never, right?

I had fun with Bonnie's challenge to use three photos and one of her textures to create an abstract.

These are the three photos I chose:

And Bonnie's texture, old master dust:

I played around with the opacity of the picture layers and then added the texture on top. The one at the top of this post was done using the luminosity blend at about 80%. I played around a bit more and came up with these:

Blend mode Hue 100%

Blend mode Difference 57%

The Hue blend is my favorite. What's yours?

I wish I had some photos of bluebonnets to really complete the Texas theme, but I don't (yet) so the zinnia will have to do.

I wish Bonnie's challenge was the only one I was facing this week. But that's not the case, and I'm sure it's not for you either.

Jesus referred to heaven as "a pearl of great price." It's value is far greater than anything we have in this world. Responding to adversity in a Christ-like manner isn't easy. But when we do, a little bit of heaven shines through. And you never know who may be touched by the light.

Remember the oyster.

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... Noah

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 02:36:00 +0000

Inspired by... Noah

Sunrise from Casa Verde

"...and he walked with God." (Genesis 6:9b)

Noah was a righteous man. The one blameless man of his time. Do you ever wish that could be said or written about you?

Lest you think that Noah lived in a "simpler" time when walking with God was easy or easier than it is today, consider the type of world Noah lived in:

Gluttony and overindulgence was the norm. (Luke 17:27)

The concept of marriage was abandoned and abused. (Gen 6:2)

Corruption and violence were glorified. (Gen 6:11)

Fame, fortune, power and prestige were idolized. (Gen 6:4)

All spiritual influence was rejected. (Gen 6:5)

Any of this sound familiar to you?

When we first began studying Noah, I was amazed at how much his world resonated with mine. I was also surprised, and convicted, at how often I buy in to this world view.

So how did Noah "walk with God" in the midst of such a world?

The same way we do.

By grace through faith.

The writer of Hebrews tells us, "By faith Noah took good heed of the divine warning about the unseen future, and built an ark to save his household. Through his faith he put the whole world in the wrong and made good his own claim to the righteousness which comes by faith." (Heb 11:7)

"For it is by grace you are saved through faith; it is not your own doing. It is God's gift, not a reward for work done." (Eph 2:8-9)

"Faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen." (Heb 1:11)

How often have I read over Hebrews 11:7 and missed the valuable instruction it contains? It is truly a clarion call to step out in faith, while heeding God's word, and claiming the righteousness that is already ours in Christ.

To live in this way will truly show the whole world to be wrong and will glorify God.

"But you are A CHOSEN RACE, A royal PRIESTHOOD, A HOLY NATION, A PEOPLE FOR God’s OWN POSSESSION, so that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who has called you out of darkness into His marvelous light;" (1Peter 2:9)

Sound a little intimidating?

Remember...

Walking with God,

begins with just one step.

After that, you'll never walk alone.

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... days gone by

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 17:26:00 +0000

Inspired by... days gone by

There are a lot of special and neat things about where I'm living now. And today I'm going to share one of them with you.

Anybody know what this is?

Most people guess: a cannon. But it's actually an engine from an original 1898 oil rig. Not only is it a neat story (how it came to be sitting where it is today – that is my cottage, Casa Verde, in the background) but it also provided me with an interesting composition from which to create an abstract for this week's Photo Art Friday Challenge!

A screenshot of my layers is at the end of the post. I layered the original photos and used Bonnie's Chinks of Light and Off Kilter textures to create the affect.

The Story: Back in the early 80's my friend's dad was working down in south Texas on the oil fields. He would travel the pipe lines, through the vast south Texas ranches, and read the pressure gauges to make sure there weren't any leaks. Over the course of 80+ years the oil companies had left a lot of ~~junk~~ treasure laying around. Eventually, one of the ranchers asked my friend's dad if he knew anyone who would be interested in cleaning up his ranch. He immediately contacted his son and grandson.

If I haven't lost you already, here's where the story gets interesting...

On the rancher's property, nearly hidden by trees, was an old tin building about 30ft wide x 100ft long. The building had been erected some 60+ years before by Magnolia Oil to preserve one of the last known, complete, original oil rigs. Somehow, as Magnolia became Mobile, became Exxon, the rig down in Web County was forgotten.

For my friend, it was love at first sight. He's still looking for the pictures he took of the rig as they found it inside this tin building, and I'll post them here when he does, but see if you can imagine what he saw:

The engine, pictured above, was attached to a wheel, about 14ft in diameter which rotated and engaged the walking beam, a 24ft x 18inch x 20inch solid piece of wood, mounted on an "A" frame. At the end of the walking beam was the shaft that went down into the earth, usually a quarter-mile or more, and brought up the oil. A massive, complex system with many parts, the oil companies quickly engineered to the more streamline rigs you still see today.

It took about a year-and-a-half, but my friend and his son cleaned up the rancher's property and moved the rig with the intent of setting it up exactly as they had found it. As you can see, they got as far as the engine. But the other parts have been preserved and one day (hopefully soon) people driving by won't be pointing to the "cannon" anymore...

Tico 2

Titusville Iron Works

Titusville PA.

Pat. 1898

The last picture is textured with Kim Klassen's awaken. It's just enough, don't you think {wink}. I've enrolled in her Beyond Layers class, and am looking forward to a "year of art full inspiration!"

I have to admit, I'm intrigued by stories like the one shared above. I love old equipment, gears, rigs, etc. and believe history comes alive when you can teach it through personal stories. It's more interesting and meaningful, because it's the people in history that makes it matter.

I hope you've enjoyed the story. And if you have one of your own or know about these old rigs, I'd love to hear from you!

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... cooking light

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 00:04:00 +0000

Inspired by... cooking light

One of my favorite culinary magazines, I always look forward to finding Cooking Light in my mailbox!

On average, there are about 5 new recipes in each magazine that my family loves. The Jan/Feb edition is no exception.

The first recipe that caught my eye was the Shrimp Stuffed Shells. Shrimp and pasta, two of my favorite things! and Oh, my.... was it YUMMY!

Ingredients

20 uncooked jumbo pasta shells (about 8 ounces)

1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil

1/2 cup chopped shallots

2 tablespoons minced garlic (about 6 cloves)

1/2 cup (4 ounces) 1/3-less-fat cream cheese

1/4 cup 2% reduced-fat milk

1/4 teaspoon ground red pepper

1/3 cup chopped fresh basil

1 pound medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and coarsely chopped

1 tablespoon potato starch

Cooking spray

3 cups lower-sodium marinara sauce (such as McCutcheon's), divided

1/3 cup (1 1/2 ounces) grated fresh Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese

Preparation

Preheat oven to 400°.
Cook pasta 7 minutes or until almost al dente, omitting salt and fat. Drain well.
Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add oil to pan; swirl to coat. Add shallots; cook 4 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add garlic; cook 1 minute, stirring constantly. Add cream cheese, milk, and pepper; cook until cheese melts, stirring until smooth. Remove from heat. Stir in basil. Place shrimp in a bowl. Sprinkle with potato starch; toss well to coat. Add cream cheese mixture to shrimp; toss well.
Divide shrimp mixture evenly among pasta shells. Coat a 13 x 9-inch glass or ceramic baking dish with cooking spray; spread 1 cup marinara over bottom of dish. Arrange shells in prepared dish; top with remaining 2 cups marinara. Sprinkle shells evenly with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Bake at 400° for 30 minutes or until shrimp is done.

Julianna Grimes, Cooking Light
JANUARY 2012

I could not find the potato starch at my local grocer, so I just used a bit of flour, but honestly, you could just leave it out. You could also substitute another hard cheese of your liking if you don't have the parmigiano-reggiano.

This meal went together quickly and easily. The verdict from my family: "You can make this again."

What have you been cooking lately?

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... sheep

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 23:20:00 +0000

Inspired by... sheep

I am so, so, so, so happy to have my internet back up and running! Since my "real" job as well as blogging depends on it... seriously, this has felt like the longest week of my life!

I have a sweet little craft for you today!

I was inspired by Melissa, over at Zen and Now Garden, who was inspired by the Inadvertent Farmer! {sigh} So much inspiration in blogland!

Introducing... Eweena!

Isn't she classy? Eweena currently stands on my desk next to one of my favorite Christmas presents... (thanks, M.S.!)

You might even say, "All you need is love... from a cat." But I digress...

These sweet sheep were so easy to make, would be a great craft to do with your kiddos (if you have them) and can be dressed up in so many different ways!

Here are a couple dressed for the holidays...

I hand stitched the little tags to say, "4 EWE" – so cute!

Melissa has a lot of great ideas on her blog and a tutorial, so be sure and click over to check out her versions.

With Spring right around the corner (yes, I'm hopeful!) these would be fun to make in soft pastels with tulips or roses around their necks, to incorporate into your Easter & Spring decor – or give as gifts!

I'd love to see what you come up with!

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... serendipitous beginnings

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Fri, 06 Jan 2012 21:48:00 +0000

Inspired by... serendipitous beginnings

My dad and I made a move recently. It was a hard move, but we've found unexpected and wonderful things in the midst of the difficulty.

Mainly, a (nearly) overwhelming support from family and friends. People who have gone out of their way to show support and let us know we are loved.

God is good. All the time. And He will, in His own time, make sense of the chaos.

We've moved to a charming little cottage I call Verde House.

Verde for green, of course, but verde (verdant) also speaks of growing and flourishing. And that is my prayer for this new beginning in our lives.

There is peace here at Verde House and for that I am very thankful.

I've never been a morning person, but it's hard not to be enticed as the cottage fills with liquid gold every morning.

Despite the heavy drapes, the sun always finds a way to spill through. I'm finding it hard to resist.

We had a heavy, enchanting, mist this morning...

...giving me one more reason to wish the internet was installed so I didn't have to schlep over to my friend's house to ~~impose on~~ use her internet. Our hope is by Monday, things will be getting back to normal in that regard.

In the meantime, I'm facing a weekend without my computer at Verde House... hmmm, that might turn out to be unexpectedly wonderful!

Blessings,

Inspired by... YOU

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Inspired by... YOU

Have you been enjoying the "best of" posts popping up all over blogland this last week? I've enjoyed the opportunity to catch some posts I previously missed.

After reviewing the top ten blog posts (based on your page views) on Inspired by... I noticed that many of the post dates were early on and since so many of you are new followers I thought you might enjoy a recap in case you missed some of the favorites!

Here's the inspired countdown...

#Ten

The Hoots!

#Nine

Inspired Noel #3

#Eight

Noel

#Seven

Before and After Projects

#Six

#Five

#Four

#Three

#Two

Flaws Turned Fabulous

And the most viewed post

of 2011

Inspired Noel #4

I hope you saw something new and inspiring today! Thank you all for following, commenting, pinning, Facebook-ing and just plain viewing Inspired by...

I hope to continue to inspire you in 1012!

Blessings on your New Year,

Inspired by... new beginnings

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 10:00:00 +0000

Inspired by... new beginnings

Happy New Year!

Whatever 2011 meant for you personally

it is my hope that 2012 will be better and brighter!

Butterflies symbolize new beginnings and this one is especially pretty combined with Bonnie's Fanciful texture!

It's hard to believe January 2012 represents only my 8th month of blogging! I've met so many wonderful people and learned so much, I feel like I've been doing this far longer! I have so many inspiring and exciting things I want to share with you in 2012!

To start, I have a whimsical January desktop freebie for you today!

Download HERE

Featuring the kit Marshmallow World by Dancing Princess Designs!

This kit is so fun, just perfect for scrapping all your winter wonderland adventures!

Of which I hope you have many in the New Year!

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... Guluptsie

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Thu, 29 Dec 2011 00:35:00 +0000

Inspired by... Guluptsie

Gul-what? It's actually pronounced (or at least I pronounce it) Hul-op-shee and they are stuffed cabbage rolls! A perfect day-after-Christmas meal, especially if you have four hours to kill. Not sayin' I did, but these were a promised Christmas gift... you get the picture.

My recipe is a variation of the one found here.

Ingredients

2 large heads cabbage
2 pounds ground beef
1 pound bacon, crumbled
2 tablespoons minced garlic, or to taste
1 large onion, coarsely chopped
2 cups uncooked white rice
1 tablespoon Mrs. Dash
Salt and pepper to taste
2 (14.4 ounce) cans whole tomatoes with juice
2 (15 ounce) cans tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth

Directions

Bring a large amount of water to a boil in a large stockpot over high heat. Remove cores from the cabbages with the tip of a paring knife, leaving the heads intact. Place the cabbages into the boiling water, and set aside to soften.
In a large skillet, brown the beef over medium-high heat. Drain the meat in a colander. Using a little of the grease from the meat, stir in the onions and garlic; cook until softened and translucent. Stir in the rice, and cook until the rice has begun to brown. When the rice has browned, mix it together with the browned meat, add Mrs. Dash; season to taste with salt and pepper.

3. Remove the heads of cabbage from the hot water. Remove the softened outer leaves, and rinse with cool water. Set the firm, small, inner leaves aside.

4. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Butter two 9x13-inch casserole dishes. Line with small inner cabbage leaves.

5. Lay a cabbage leaf flat on a work surface with the inside of the leaf facing up, and the core-side facing you. Place 1 to 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture on the bottom part of the leaf. Roll the leaf about halfway, then fold in the sides, and finish rolling all of the way. Place into the prepared dish, seam-side down. Repeat with remaining ingredients.

6. Pour the canned tomatoes (with juice) into a bowl and crush by hand into 1/2-inch pieces. Stir in the tomato sauce and chicken broth. Pour this evenly over the rolls, and cover them with aluminum foil.

7. Bake in preheated oven until the rice has softened, and the juices are bubbling, about 2 hours.

This made 20+ rolls, but as others have noted, they do freeze well for later consumption. There are many variations of this recipe, so have fun with it! And if you have a favorite version, please share!

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... gifts

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 00:43:00 +0000

Inspired by... gifts

Was your Christmas all you hoped it would be? I certainly hope it was!

Sometimes, though, we can be disappointed if we set our expectations too high. At Christmas-time, with all the hype leading up to the special day, it's easy for that to happen. Especially, if we're focused on the wrong things.

I can still vividly remember one childhood Christmas disappointment. There were several Strawberry Shortcake dolls (and ensuing paraphernalia) under the tree that year. I had wanted them desperately earlier in the year. The only problem was, by the time Christmas rolled around, I had outgrown them! Not only was I disappointed in the gifts, but I was hurt that the Givers hadn't noticed I'd outgrown playing with dolls.

I think that experience may be why I take such care in choosing the gifts I give today, and struggle when having to purchase something for someone I don't know very well.

I take JOY in watching someone open that PERFECT GIFT.

"[The Magi] were overwhelmed at the sight of it and, entering the house, they saw the

child with Mary his mother and bowed low in homage to him; they opened their

treasure chests and presented gifts to him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh."

Can you imagine the expression on Mary & Joseph's faces when the Magi presented their gifts to Baby Jesus?

Gold – big smile!

Frankincense – smile dimming a bit

Myrrh – a frozen, sort of half smile as you remember to be gracious, after all these men are Kings

God, frankincense and myrrh. Not exactly perfect gifts for a toddler, right?

But this wasn't any ordinary toddler.

This was Jesus, The Christ. Messiah.

And the gifts the Magi gave were PERFECT.

GOLD – held great value and symbolized Jesus' DEITY

FRANKINCENSE – is a white resin, a clean burning incense that was mixed with the temple sacrifice and produced a "fragrant aroma unto the Lord." It symbolized Jesus' DESTINY - who, as our High Priest, would offer the ultimate and FINAL sacrifice.

MYRRH – also a resin, with strong antiseptic properties was used for medicinal purposes (pain relief) and embalming. Myrrh symbolized Jesus' DEATH, the bitterness and suffering He would endure.

So you see, the Magis' gifts were perfect and...

God has sent us the perfect gift.

"God so loved the world that He gave His only Son, that everyone who has

faith in Him will not perish but have eternal life."

My prayer this Christmas is that you will receive Him.

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here:

Inspired by... Aslan

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 19:23:00 +0000

Inspired by... Aslan

Aslan wants to share a Christmas story with you today.

He promises that it will make you smile.

He asks that you try to stay awake...

...because this is a very sweet story about how he got the "M" on his forehead.

This is a story of a simple Tabby cat, and her gift on the very first Christmas day to a special mother and child.

There was no snow that night in Bethlehem. Instead, the small cat watched a star-spangled sky from her perch in the window of a stable. She liked the stable, for it was a warm safe place to raise her furry babies, and the innkeeper sometimes left scraps out for her to nibble. Tabby wasn't particularly distinctive, and most humans didn't look at her twice. After all, her short orange/white fur was quite common. But Tabby's striped coat hid a heart bigger than cats twice her size.

This night, though, Tabby was out of sorts, for she'd not been able to hunt and catch dinner. Travelers had poured into town for days, so noisy they disturbed decent cat-folks' rest. Why, they'd even invaded Tabby’s quiet stable, a place she had before shared only with other furry creatures. Tabby hadn't minded the human couple—they were calmer than most. She'd left that morning for her usual rounds, but when she returned, the stable was packed with people.

From her perch on the window, Tabby watched the last of the strangers leave. She slipped from the window, and padded silently inside—and froze!

"Meewwww, meewww, meewww," cried a tiny voice.

A kitten? Tabby's ears turn this way and that to find the sound of the kitten's voice. It came from the manger, the very place Tabby often made her own bed. A woman knelt beside the manger, intent on the small mewling that arose from within. Tabby was drawn by the kittenish sound, though she knew her own furry babies were grown to cat-hood. She tiptoed forward very slowly, and passed by a wooly burro, a warm cow, and all the other animals.

The woman looked up, and saw the striped cat. "Oh, little cat," she murmured, "my baby cannot sleep, and nothing calms him this night." She sighed, and turned back to the manger. "How grateful would I be to anyone able to bring him sweet dreams."

And, as Tabby watched, each stable animal stepped forward in turn and tried to soothe the woman's baby. But the kittenish sounds continued, and finally Tabby could contain herself no longer.

Quickly, she washed herself—paws, face, behind the ears, to the very tip of her tail (so as not to offend the child's mother)—and then shyly stepped forward. She leapt gracefully to the manger, and stared into the face of the most beautiful baby (human or kitten!) she'd ever seen. He cooed and smiled, waving his tiny hands at Tabby, and she very carefully drew in her claws and settled beside him. Forgotten was her empty tummy; she could only hear her heart calling out to this sweet human-kitten.

And Tabby began to purr.

The wondrous cat-song filled the stable with overwhelming emotion. The animals listened with awe, and the child's mother smiled as her baby quietly went to sleep.

The child's mother placed her hand gently on the purring Tabby's forehead. "Blessings upon you, Tabby-cat, for this sweet gift given to me and my child," she said. And where she'd touched Tabby's brow, there appeared an M—the sign of the Madonna's benediction.

From that day forward, all proper tabby cats are honored with an M on their brow for the great service they performed that first Christmas night. And Christmas nights often find Tabby cats staring into the night, purring as they recall a very special child their ancestor once sang to sleep.

Blessings on your Christmas,

PS I've seen many versions of this legend on the internet. The one posted above (except for a couple of slight changes made by me) is Aslan's favorite and was found HERE.

Inspired by... 12 Days of Textures {Day 10}

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Fri, 23 Dec 2011 02:09:00 +0000

Inspired by... 12 Days of Textures {Day 10}

You're either wondering where Day 6-9 went or you're too busy with holiday preparations to have noticed that I've been absent for the last few days. I wish I could say I've been busy, too, but unfortunately, it's been the flu. {sigh}

But I believe I'm on the mend now and wanted to share with you some of the more favored ornaments on our Christmas tree... and play with some textures at the same time!

Let's start with a smile, shall we?

Here is a beautiful hummingbird my mom gave me one year.

This is one of the older (vintage?) ornaments that has been passed down from my Grandmother's tree.

This one is special because my Nana made it for me.

My dad gave me a set of Hummel church ornaments one year... so sweet!

I think this one came from Wally World... but it's so pretty!

And this one my dad bought for me at a Christmas craft bazaar many, many years ago...

I still love it!

The best thing about decorating for Christmas at my house, is that 90% of my decorations were given to me by family or friends. Every year as I decorate my trees and set out my nativities and other decorations I'm reminded of the sweetness of each person who gifted me in the past. So in a very real sense, their gift continues to bless me year after year.

I hope you have a similar experience in your home this Christmas.

Blessings,

Inspired by... 12 Days of Textures {Day 5}

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Sat, 17 Dec 2011 01:03:00 +0000

Inspired by... 12 Days of Textures {Day 5}

Sharing my pretty cardinal crackle votive (love) and Kim's Zuzu texture with you today.

Blessings,

Inspired by... 12 Days of Textures {Days 3 & 4}

noreply@blogger.com (June Scott) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 03:02:00 +0000

Inspired by... 12 Days of Textures {Days 3 & 4}

Yes, I'm playing a bit of catch up here with Kim's 12 Days of Textures holiday series, with another shot from the Hawaiian archives... using Kim's Edward and Cosmo textures...

The Legend of Poinsettia

Legend has it that a poor child

in Mexico having nothing to

give the Christ Child on His

birthday, gathered some weeds

into a lovely bouquet; the only

gift she had to offer.

When she brought her gift to the manager

this simple weed was transformed

into a brilliant red bloom ~ the poinsettia!

Now known as the beautiful

"Flower of the Holy Night"

It was so neat to find poinsettia's growing in people's backyards! Even in balmy Hawaii, they spoke "Christmas" to me. Their bold red and green are one of my favorite symbols of the holiday.

Do you have a favorite holiday "symbol" ?

Blessings,

Sharing inspiration here: