Back in the late summer early fall of ’10 I went to church with my best friend Mark to the Vineyard Community Church on a Saturday night. We stopped at the Chick-fil-a located on Kemper Rd for dinner. In talking with the manager, Jaseon, there I was informed that they would be opening a location at Bridgewater Falls, right off of By-Pass 4 on Princeton Road early ’11. I asked him if was too early to apply to work there or not? He handed me an application and said that if I filled this out and mailed it back to him that he would forward it to the correct people who would be hiring for that location. I did just that!!!
When Chick-fil-a had a huge vinyl sign hanging from the retaining wall at Bridgewater Falls at the end of summer ’10, I knew that I had to start praying about this job even before they broke ground to build the standing restaurant. Praying how could I work there if hired, what would I do when hired, where did I see myself in the company. Starting to watch for a place that was taking applications for that location was hard. But because they did not do it in their building (since it was still being built), they had used a storefront that was behind the old Toys R’ Us location next to Cold Stone Creamery (who has the bestest ice cream ever). So I went in there and got another application to fill out and turn in. Attached to the application was a separate sheet of paper with 5 questions. I retyped the question with my answers in blue.
Where do you see yourself in 1 year? 5 years? 10 years?
That’s a good question? Where would I like to see myself in a 1-year or even 5, 10 years from now? I have wanted to move out of my dad’s house for sometime now. I am praying that I can get a job to help me obtain the financial means of getting this goal. As well as while I am back in school full time I need a means to help me along during the semesters, and to help me grow more in the business forefront. In 5 years I hope to possibility graduate from Miami with my licensure in Special Education and as well to obtain a job in a school working with special needs children. In 10 years I hope to have a house and maybe even a family of my own.
Who would you say that has been the most influential person in you life? Why?
The most influential person in my life would have to be my mother. I say her because she was the glue that held my family together. She also was the key person that introduced me to the life that I now have with my Lord and King; God She was not only my amazing mother, but she was a best friend and my mentor. I could talk to her and she would not judge me but would counsel me in the “motherly” ways and as a woman of God.
What are the three most important things to you?
I would have to say that the three most important things to me are my bible, music, and my car.
What is your greatest character strength?
I am a very extroverted, personable person, and totally a team player! I have a servant’s heart and an open mind. These are my best character strengths, I believe that each one works together to create me, who I am, and what drives my passions in life.
Why do you want to work at Chick-fil-A?
First off and easily answered: I LOVE THE FOOD that Chick-fil-A serves!! But even more that it is a faith based business. I believe that wit will help develop me more as an adult trying to grow in different avenues of my life. I want to work with a positive team because I am a very positive woman, who loves to work with all types of people.
When I went and turned in my application I had an interview with 1 of their 4 managers. We talked for about 15-20 minutes. At the end of our talking to each other she asked me back for a second interview the following week (mind you this was Tuesday January 18th), because my classes were on Monday and Wednesday and her times were all filled for Tuesday we had to schedule it for Thursday, January 27 at 11 AM.
Before my interview on the 27th I had been talking to Linda Vogt at Miami University about my desire to get a job. She’s had been helping me rewrite my résumé for about a week or so. So I stopped by her office to tell her about my second interview with Chick-fil-a the coming Thursday. We spoke about what I should wear, even for a part time job at a fast food restaurant. We also spoke about my résumé and how I wanted things to read and/or sound to future employers.
So the day of the interview I was so nervous!!! It felt weird to be nervous… but since ’08 I hadn’t worked a reliable hourly job. Sure I worked for 4 different school districts as a paraprofessional substitute, but that job was inconsistent and not dependable. I never knew when I was working next unless it was the night before at 10 PM or the morning of at 5 AM. As well, I haven’t been called to sub but only one or two times since ’11 has started.
I get there for my interview at 10 till 11. Not too early… but not late. I interviewed with 2 managers in 30 minutes. I found out that they do not have a General Manager like most places do. But they have an owner, 4 managers that have the General Manager’s capabilities, and have shift leaders to help run the store. I asked some questions myself like; “If hired now, on my one year review what can I do now that will make it look outstanding?” and “What do the opportunities for growth look like with Chick-fil-a?” I think those two interviews went really well, because at 5:30 that night I got called back for a THIRD interview the following day at 11:30 AM. As well, that interview went really well too.
Saturday morning I was on my way to help out with the out reach that I participate with every Saturday, and thought to take a little thank you note for the interviews. Here I am all bundled up to go and serve with the Good Sam Run with the VCC, wearing a lot of layers because it is outside. Running into the place where they were accepting applications and holding interviews just to drop off this little 3 line typed thank you letter. I got a weird look; let’s just say that. Then went on my way to the VCC.
After that I just left it in the Lord’s hands. I had no control over if they hired me or not. Nothing else I could say or do would help me get it. So I just prayed constantly about it as well with you… my friends.
I knew that Monday January 31st I would get the job offer or not. I had classes ALL day… 9:30-3:30. So my phone had to be either off or on silent. I checked it in between classes; sometimes I peeked at it during class. But nothing yet, not phone call. I get out of Math at 3:15 to a voice mail. It was one of the managers. She told me that she had a job offer and to give her a call back.
It is official!! I am now an employee at Chick-fil-a at Bridgewater Falls. They are set to be open for business February 10, 2011. I start tomorrow!! I go in for a fitting for my uniform from 12-2, and this Saturday from 2-7 for my orientation.
I am SUPPER EXCITED!!!!!
Monday, January 31, 2011
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Intelligence....
Okay so today I'm really sick. I have been up all night being sick and getting sick. Today, this morning, my dad goes to the store to get some odds and ends. I ask him to pick me up some Sprite because everything is not settling. He does, LOVE him!!! I have not ate anything ALL DAY and I've got a headache that is ginormous!!! But in order to "chance" taking it I really need to eat something. So I ask Tim, my brother, if he would go to the store if I let him borrow my car and take my credit card and get me some apples and bananas. He said yes, then my older sister chimes in, "Oooh can I go too? I need to get somethings for myself, and I'll put your apples and bananas on my food stamps." At first I said yes, but she couldn't smoke in my car. Then I go into my room to get my card for Tim and thought about the last time she was in my car and almost killed Tim, Mike and myself. That quickly changed my mind about letting her go with Tim. I told her that she couldn't go with him and she flipps out. I point out that the last time she was in my car that she totally disrespected me and everyone in it as well with almost killed us. But then she goes off on me telling me that I sleep around with various men and that I give "head" for a living. She called me everything but a white woman as well!!! And she wonders why I don't do anything for her?!
One thing she doesn't know.... Everytime she goes off on me or about me behind my back (as if I can't hear her) I have my little mp3 recorder recording everything she says. Maybe she does know and just doesn't care because when she went off earlier I had it in my hand.
I can't handle this any more.
One thing she doesn't know.... Everytime she goes off on me or about me behind my back (as if I can't hear her) I have my little mp3 recorder recording everything she says. Maybe she does know and just doesn't care because when she went off earlier I had it in my hand.
I can't handle this any more.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Snow Pic's
From first snow about a week ago. And they were taken before the snow plow came down either one of our roads. The time was about noon, when I took these not leaving the warmth of me house!!!
The rest are from last winter's first snow storm. With these I actually got out and walked around taking picture of randomness.
Snow is SOOOOO Pretty!!!!
Plus good fun in snowball fights... if I can ever get anyone to play with me in the snow....
Yeah totally out of order.... still getting the hang of this.... but enjoy the pictures any way!!!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Captured?
I'm not saying it is so, but I really like to believe that the possibilities are endless right now. Yes, my heart is seriously crushing right now. But things have just started between the two of us. The best has yet to come or even happen (at least I would like to believe).
Our first date was Thursday, January 6th. We met up at Krishna's Indian food in Oxford on Main St. I have never had Indian food before so it was good, and pretty interesting. I'm not a huge fan of spicy food. I got a level "0" and still thought it was a little much. But still good. When the food was served he asked if it was okay for him to say grace, and in awe of him asking me if it was okay... I said yes!!! But when he said it he spoke kind of quietly and I really couldn't hear him. So I just said grace for me while he was saying grace. LoL!! We were there for HOURS talking!!! Amazing conversation!!!! There was a little weirdness (but I'm not going to dish all that out). After we were finished eating and just sitting there and talking about a lot of different things, I was FREEZING (I had my coat on backwards I was so cold). So I made a suggestion to go over to Kofenya, a few doors down for some coffee and more conversation.
We get there he gets a Hot Chocolate, and I get a Carmel Latte. YUMMY!!! We sit in a booth and grab a kids "Memory" game to play. We play like 5 different rounds. By the 3rd or 4th round we were simply going through the motions of playing the game, because the conversation was so much fun!!! LOTS OF LAUGHTER!!!!
Since I was parked right out side the doors of Kofenya, I drove him back to his car because he was parked on the other side of the block. When I get to his car the conversation was still flowing between the two of us!!!! He stops mid sentence and looks at me and asks me if it is okay for him to kiss me.
There is so much attraction between us throughout the date, so of coarse I said yes!! The kiss was so soft, very tender, simple and yet so perfect. It was a great way to end the evening.... no it was a absolute perfect way to end it!!!
So what's next? Well, for the past two weeks he's been coming to church with me. I'm the kind of woman who takes my relationship with Christ very personal and kinda private for me. Especially worship... my heart is very private. I'm not the kind of woman that is open right away to sharing my fellowship time with just any one. But with him it's different. I don't know why but it is. I really find myself wanting to learn about his walk with the Lord. I want to know how his relationship is with God.
One thing that I found VERY odd in my meditation time in reading the word is that the prayer that I am praying for my future husband is found in Romans 1:10-12 "One of the things I always pray for is the opportunity, God willing, to come at last to see you. For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord. When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but also I want to be encouraged by yours."
Then I was reading in Ephesians the other night. Actually the night before our date, and praying that we both keep an open mind and really listen to each other. Just praying for God to have his way on the date. And the scripture that I opened up to was Ephesians 1:15-18 "Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your hope and love for God's people everywhere, I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your heart will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope as he has given to those he called- his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance."
We've text each other A LOT during the day!!! As well as talk a lot!!! I know that I am crushing on him a lot. But I don't want things to go too fast with him. We have LOTS of questions for each other so lack of conversation is never a problem.
I'm looking forward to what is actually in stored for us!!
Our next date we are going to be planning a trip to the Dayton Art Museam. Super stoked!!! I haven't been there since I was in college at The School of Advertising Art!!! It's gonna be SO MUCH FUN!!!!!
Our first date was Thursday, January 6th. We met up at Krishna's Indian food in Oxford on Main St. I have never had Indian food before so it was good, and pretty interesting. I'm not a huge fan of spicy food. I got a level "0" and still thought it was a little much. But still good. When the food was served he asked if it was okay for him to say grace, and in awe of him asking me if it was okay... I said yes!!! But when he said it he spoke kind of quietly and I really couldn't hear him. So I just said grace for me while he was saying grace. LoL!! We were there for HOURS talking!!! Amazing conversation!!!! There was a little weirdness (but I'm not going to dish all that out). After we were finished eating and just sitting there and talking about a lot of different things, I was FREEZING (I had my coat on backwards I was so cold). So I made a suggestion to go over to Kofenya, a few doors down for some coffee and more conversation.
We get there he gets a Hot Chocolate, and I get a Carmel Latte. YUMMY!!! We sit in a booth and grab a kids "Memory" game to play. We play like 5 different rounds. By the 3rd or 4th round we were simply going through the motions of playing the game, because the conversation was so much fun!!! LOTS OF LAUGHTER!!!!
Since I was parked right out side the doors of Kofenya, I drove him back to his car because he was parked on the other side of the block. When I get to his car the conversation was still flowing between the two of us!!!! He stops mid sentence and looks at me and asks me if it is okay for him to kiss me.
There is so much attraction between us throughout the date, so of coarse I said yes!! The kiss was so soft, very tender, simple and yet so perfect. It was a great way to end the evening.... no it was a absolute perfect way to end it!!!
So what's next? Well, for the past two weeks he's been coming to church with me. I'm the kind of woman who takes my relationship with Christ very personal and kinda private for me. Especially worship... my heart is very private. I'm not the kind of woman that is open right away to sharing my fellowship time with just any one. But with him it's different. I don't know why but it is. I really find myself wanting to learn about his walk with the Lord. I want to know how his relationship is with God.
One thing that I found VERY odd in my meditation time in reading the word is that the prayer that I am praying for my future husband is found in Romans 1:10-12 "One of the things I always pray for is the opportunity, God willing, to come at last to see you. For I long to visit you so I can bring you some spiritual gift that will help you grow strong in the Lord. When we get together, I want to encourage you in your faith, but also I want to be encouraged by yours."
Then I was reading in Ephesians the other night. Actually the night before our date, and praying that we both keep an open mind and really listen to each other. Just praying for God to have his way on the date. And the scripture that I opened up to was Ephesians 1:15-18 "Ever since I first heard of your strong faith in the Lord Jesus and your hope and love for God's people everywhere, I have not stopped thanking God for you. I pray for you constantly, asking God, the glorious father of our Lord Jesus Christ, to give you spiritual wisdom and insight so that you might grow in your knowledge of God. I pray that your heart will be flooded with light so that you can understand the confident hope as he has given to those he called- his holy people who are his rich and glorious inheritance."
We've text each other A LOT during the day!!! As well as talk a lot!!! I know that I am crushing on him a lot. But I don't want things to go too fast with him. We have LOTS of questions for each other so lack of conversation is never a problem.
I'm looking forward to what is actually in stored for us!!
Our next date we are going to be planning a trip to the Dayton Art Museam. Super stoked!!! I haven't been there since I was in college at The School of Advertising Art!!! It's gonna be SO MUCH FUN!!!!!
Saturday, January 8, 2011
The Blank Slate
I've got a lot of thoughts pouring out of my mind. But I have no clue how to make sense of anything?! Today was eventful, however at the same time a little bit disappointing. Don't get me wrong I would totally like the go off here and burn bridges by venting my frustrations. But that's not me. I do realize that economy really still sucks. I do. But I've noticed this whenever it comes to anything that I attempt to plan (except a very few rare occasions) events, parties, and shows that not many of the people that I invited either replay, decline, or I speak to and I get a very rude "I'm not coming." I understand that direct sales business is a bit overwhelming at times with the "Buy Buy Buy" appeal to it. But seriously, you haven't been to one of my shows!!! There is NO pressure to buy!!! I do like it when you do... but there is no pressure!!! I'm simply there to serve you, and make you feel needed, wanted and desired. Plus, I want to show you a relatively inexpensive way to dress up your wardrobe with OUT spending an arm and leg on new clothes. -Whether or not you buy Premier or not-
God ram-racked me when I had a friend who had scheduled a show with me in the beginning of last year. A few days before her show she had miscarried her SECOND child, and the day of her show she was to go into the hospital for a D&C (dilation and curettage). I called her the day before and told her that we didn't have to have it. And that we could do it another time at a later date. She said no that she needed to have this and to be around women & friends for the encouragement. The night of her show, when I got to her house she greeted me with open arms, and tears in her eyes. I asked her again if she was sure, she said she was. That night we had A LOT of fun!!! Though her show did not retail enough to be considered a show, I made her feel like a woman. I loved on her in the way that a woman needs that kind of love from a friend who's just endured a heartbreak like she did. That's what my shows are about. The money is just a perk that I really like, but not primarly the sole reason.
I've also had a show where the hostess really didn't have the money to even pay for her taxes and shipping and handling on her FREE jewelry. And I covered the cost just so I could be a blessing to a friend!!
I've had a few shows where there wasn't enough to retail to even call it a show. We still have TONS of fun!!! Who knows maybe someone from a "non-retailing" show wants the FREE jewelry that I spoke about books a show with me and worked her butt off to get it her FREE jewelry? That happens too!!!
Most of the ladies that I meet at my shows become really good friends of mine that I try to hang out with on a regular basis!! I know that one of my past hostess' and I have hung out so much that I've even invited her to parties that I have been invited too!! This friend is even pondering the idea of becoming a jeweler, because she loves the jewelry and the way that the company is developed on service and how they serve not only the jeweler but the consumers too.
So this year, my 2nd year in Premier Designs Jewelry. It is my goal to grow my business into more of a servant's heart. I'm only having 2-3 home shows a month that way I can concentrate more on the women at the shows and be more attentive to their needs. I hope that my friends will be more supportive in this next year than they were in the past. But I can do is hope and pray and continue on "working" my business for me. Not depending on anyone else, but God, to supply for me.
God ram-racked me when I had a friend who had scheduled a show with me in the beginning of last year. A few days before her show she had miscarried her SECOND child, and the day of her show she was to go into the hospital for a D&C (dilation and curettage). I called her the day before and told her that we didn't have to have it. And that we could do it another time at a later date. She said no that she needed to have this and to be around women & friends for the encouragement. The night of her show, when I got to her house she greeted me with open arms, and tears in her eyes. I asked her again if she was sure, she said she was. That night we had A LOT of fun!!! Though her show did not retail enough to be considered a show, I made her feel like a woman. I loved on her in the way that a woman needs that kind of love from a friend who's just endured a heartbreak like she did. That's what my shows are about. The money is just a perk that I really like, but not primarly the sole reason.
I've also had a show where the hostess really didn't have the money to even pay for her taxes and shipping and handling on her FREE jewelry. And I covered the cost just so I could be a blessing to a friend!!
I've had a few shows where there wasn't enough to retail to even call it a show. We still have TONS of fun!!! Who knows maybe someone from a "non-retailing" show wants the FREE jewelry that I spoke about books a show with me and worked her butt off to get it her FREE jewelry? That happens too!!!
Most of the ladies that I meet at my shows become really good friends of mine that I try to hang out with on a regular basis!! I know that one of my past hostess' and I have hung out so much that I've even invited her to parties that I have been invited too!! This friend is even pondering the idea of becoming a jeweler, because she loves the jewelry and the way that the company is developed on service and how they serve not only the jeweler but the consumers too.
So this year, my 2nd year in Premier Designs Jewelry. It is my goal to grow my business into more of a servant's heart. I'm only having 2-3 home shows a month that way I can concentrate more on the women at the shows and be more attentive to their needs. I hope that my friends will be more supportive in this next year than they were in the past. But I can do is hope and pray and continue on "working" my business for me. Not depending on anyone else, but God, to supply for me.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
More about the illustration, "Written Promises"
I have always been in tune with my artistic side; from as far back as I can remember. I get those urges or moments of inspiration to create something new. Whether it’s a drawing, an illustration and getting my hands and clothes covered in paint. To grabbing my camera and taking a portrait of something that is unusually cool and yet simplistic at the same time, or even journaling in one of my many sketch journals of desires that I have. When I started back in college this past fall, I got this feeling like God was speaking to me and asking me to paint his promises that he has written out for you and me in his book of life called the Bible. Then the questions I had about this inspiration were asked from me to God, “What medium would you have me paint it in? What size should it be? What style of painting would you like me to paint your promises in? What specific promises would you have me illustrate?”
Over the following weeks, which turned into months, I have simply been in a thought process or one would say a type of meditation about this next venture that I am to begin. Not knowing anything about what I was about to take on (size, medium, style, etc) when the painting is to actually start. So to start I had to get in to God’s word. I had to meditate on him, with him, and let his love permeate through my mind and self. If I were at church and the sermon had quoted a certain scripture, I wrote that scripture down to revisit later to see if it would be a good one for the illustration. Or if I would be out with friends and in our conversation and something would “sound off” in my head of a scripture that had some reflection on our conversation, I would write down the scripture on my hand. The scripture could be in a song that I listen too that speaks of an everlasting love and a passion that God has for his children. If I know what scripture the recording artist got their inspiration from to write it, I would also jot it down on my hand or keep a mental note to listen to that song again. Or in my quiet time before the Lord, if he gives me a specific scripture to me I write it down along with the others that I have written down. I keep them next to my bed, by my study Bible, that way I am continually praying over each scripture I write down.
I want to keep this next illustration piece totally centered on Christ, his love, and his promises for us. Most of all I want to remind myself that those words, those promises are for me and that I am loved with a type of love that can never be compromised. Jeremiah 29:11 is a scripture that I carry with me everywhere I go. I have it on my key chain. It says: “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, they are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Reading this scripture over and over, even on the lowest days, always gives me the reassurance that what I am currently doing in life, and where I am currently at, is right on track with my Heavenly Father’s plans. As well with other scriptures for when I get worried, 1 Peter 5:7 tells me specifically that God cares for me and to cast my worries upon him when I feel like I have lost all hope and he will take my yoke upon his back and carry it for me.
I do not feel as though I am done writing down his promises for this painting, I will continue to journal and write the ones that speak to me the most down. But I needed to get an idea of how much this is going to cost. As well, I needed to be thinking about the size of the canvas that I will want to paint it on and if I wanted to build the canvas on my own or purchase it already assembled. I started out visiting different art stores looking at the different canvas’ they had to purchase, as well as looking at the materials to build my own. I studied the different sizes of each canvas, the one that spoke loudly too me was the 30”x40.” But there were two that were made out of different canvas materials, one was a thinner fabric and the other was a lot thicker and had more of a texture. The thicker and more textured canvas was double the amount of money, however it is extremely well worth the price. I had not only found the size of canvas that I desire this illustration to be, but as well with the exact canvas that I want to paint this new art piece on.
Doing an innovatory of my paint supplies and my paintbrushes I know that I will need to invest a good chunk of money in the paints alone. I have a handful of oil paints that are mostly in the same color pallet family. In looking at the prices for a full complete set of new paints it will cost me close to $700’s in funds. I do not think that I will be purchasing a whole new set of oil paints. Rather, I’ll be adding too my current collection of paints with selections that I feel that I am in need to buy. I have a lot of various brushes as well, most of which are ones that I have are smooth and sleek, meaning that they are not meant for oil paints. I do have a few course bristled brushes but they are not all different in shapes and sizes that I feel like I am going to need. So I will have to invest in a few different sets of bristle brush sets; at least enough to help me get started on this piece that I want to take my time on.
In looking for the perfect canvas to paint I will need to get an easel to prop the canvas on so that I’m not holding the canvas while I am painting it. I thought that maybe I could get by with getting a little field easel that is relatively inexpensive, costing about $50. However I visited Bill’s Art Supply store in Oxford recently, and caught myself pretty much drooling over this gorgeous, handmade, hardwood easel that cost about $187. I realized that I would really want to make a big investment in an authentic easel. But I am not sure if my finances would allow such an investment. I do not want to lessen the selection of colors that I want for the painting, but I need to have the proper equipment to be able to render this piece in the best way possible. I already have so much time, money and energy going into this. I cannot forget all the other supplies that I need to buy when I get started on this visual piece of art. For example, I will need to get a fairly large tube of Gesso Paint to paint on the canvas before I start to lay down the oils. As well as a product called turpenoid (a form of turpentine) to help me clean the brushes, and an oil to help me thin out the paint to help the colors blend better. So the question is, will I be able to make such of an investment when so much money is already going into other avenues for this piece?
I can honestly say despite the financial aspect of this new and exciting illustration, I am very thrilled on getting started on the actual painting process. Though the process of getting ready for a new illustration is going to be a process of it’s own to take. Then to get to the point of putting paint to canvas is a new process that will be started. I was energized when God gave me the motivation for taking on such a project. I can hardly wait to see how painting his written promises for the word, that most people consider to be life, turns out to be.
Over the following weeks, which turned into months, I have simply been in a thought process or one would say a type of meditation about this next venture that I am to begin. Not knowing anything about what I was about to take on (size, medium, style, etc) when the painting is to actually start. So to start I had to get in to God’s word. I had to meditate on him, with him, and let his love permeate through my mind and self. If I were at church and the sermon had quoted a certain scripture, I wrote that scripture down to revisit later to see if it would be a good one for the illustration. Or if I would be out with friends and in our conversation and something would “sound off” in my head of a scripture that had some reflection on our conversation, I would write down the scripture on my hand. The scripture could be in a song that I listen too that speaks of an everlasting love and a passion that God has for his children. If I know what scripture the recording artist got their inspiration from to write it, I would also jot it down on my hand or keep a mental note to listen to that song again. Or in my quiet time before the Lord, if he gives me a specific scripture to me I write it down along with the others that I have written down. I keep them next to my bed, by my study Bible, that way I am continually praying over each scripture I write down.
I want to keep this next illustration piece totally centered on Christ, his love, and his promises for us. Most of all I want to remind myself that those words, those promises are for me and that I am loved with a type of love that can never be compromised. Jeremiah 29:11 is a scripture that I carry with me everywhere I go. I have it on my key chain. It says: “For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, they are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope.” Reading this scripture over and over, even on the lowest days, always gives me the reassurance that what I am currently doing in life, and where I am currently at, is right on track with my Heavenly Father’s plans. As well with other scriptures for when I get worried, 1 Peter 5:7 tells me specifically that God cares for me and to cast my worries upon him when I feel like I have lost all hope and he will take my yoke upon his back and carry it for me.
I do not feel as though I am done writing down his promises for this painting, I will continue to journal and write the ones that speak to me the most down. But I needed to get an idea of how much this is going to cost. As well, I needed to be thinking about the size of the canvas that I will want to paint it on and if I wanted to build the canvas on my own or purchase it already assembled. I started out visiting different art stores looking at the different canvas’ they had to purchase, as well as looking at the materials to build my own. I studied the different sizes of each canvas, the one that spoke loudly too me was the 30”x40.” But there were two that were made out of different canvas materials, one was a thinner fabric and the other was a lot thicker and had more of a texture. The thicker and more textured canvas was double the amount of money, however it is extremely well worth the price. I had not only found the size of canvas that I desire this illustration to be, but as well with the exact canvas that I want to paint this new art piece on.
Doing an innovatory of my paint supplies and my paintbrushes I know that I will need to invest a good chunk of money in the paints alone. I have a handful of oil paints that are mostly in the same color pallet family. In looking at the prices for a full complete set of new paints it will cost me close to $700’s in funds. I do not think that I will be purchasing a whole new set of oil paints. Rather, I’ll be adding too my current collection of paints with selections that I feel that I am in need to buy. I have a lot of various brushes as well, most of which are ones that I have are smooth and sleek, meaning that they are not meant for oil paints. I do have a few course bristled brushes but they are not all different in shapes and sizes that I feel like I am going to need. So I will have to invest in a few different sets of bristle brush sets; at least enough to help me get started on this piece that I want to take my time on.
In looking for the perfect canvas to paint I will need to get an easel to prop the canvas on so that I’m not holding the canvas while I am painting it. I thought that maybe I could get by with getting a little field easel that is relatively inexpensive, costing about $50. However I visited Bill’s Art Supply store in Oxford recently, and caught myself pretty much drooling over this gorgeous, handmade, hardwood easel that cost about $187. I realized that I would really want to make a big investment in an authentic easel. But I am not sure if my finances would allow such an investment. I do not want to lessen the selection of colors that I want for the painting, but I need to have the proper equipment to be able to render this piece in the best way possible. I already have so much time, money and energy going into this. I cannot forget all the other supplies that I need to buy when I get started on this visual piece of art. For example, I will need to get a fairly large tube of Gesso Paint to paint on the canvas before I start to lay down the oils. As well as a product called turpenoid (a form of turpentine) to help me clean the brushes, and an oil to help me thin out the paint to help the colors blend better. So the question is, will I be able to make such of an investment when so much money is already going into other avenues for this piece?
I can honestly say despite the financial aspect of this new and exciting illustration, I am very thrilled on getting started on the actual painting process. Though the process of getting ready for a new illustration is going to be a process of it’s own to take. Then to get to the point of putting paint to canvas is a new process that will be started. I was energized when God gave me the motivation for taking on such a project. I can hardly wait to see how painting his written promises for the word, that most people consider to be life, turns out to be.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Written Promises
When I was getting ready to start back to college this past fall I was praying for what God have me to do next. I was wanting help with my business with Premier Designs Jewelry, help while I was in college again, and looking for a part time job to help me out when I didn't have any shows booked. Everywhere I turned I was hearing all of God's promises.... everywhere. At church in the message, on the radio, in songs that I listened too. I got this HUGE urge to do a painting specifically painting God's promises to his children, most of all to me. I needed to read these over and over and over again throughout the past months. I'm not done writing them down for this next illustration that I want to start in late spring/early summer. I got a $125 gift certificate from my dad for Christmas that bought my 38x48" canvas, as well as took an $86 chunk out of my easel (there was also a 40% discount on it) leaving me to only paying about $29's for it!!! My dad is going to help me put it together over the weekend, and when it's finished he is going to engrave on the back of it, "With love Daddy, '10." I'm super excited about it too!!!
I need to get more oil paints, turpintine, gesso, acrylic gray paint, drying linseed oil, and some paint brushes for it. I can only imagine how long this will take me to paint?! Because listed below are only a few of the scriptures that I'm going to be painting in this illustration.
When I actually start to put paint to canvas I am planning on going to Plesant Vineyard Ministeries for about a week (or so I hope and pray) to stay in one of their luxery cabins they have out there and start working on the painting. This is a HUGE piece that I have never ever taken on. I pray that God will be with me every step!!!
If you have a favorite scripture that reminds you of God's promises that I haven't listed. Please tell me because I need more.
I will keep you all posted on how the illustration is coming as I work on it.
"Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command- be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:7-9
"You were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." 1 Corinthians 6:11
"Those who wish to boast should boast in this alone; that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken!" Jeremiah 9:24
"For I k now the plan I have for you, says the Lord, they are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11
"The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life." John 6:63
"Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world you will share in all his glory." Colossians 3:2-4
"Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you." 1 Peter 5:7
"This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: 'Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" - and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal king, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen." 1Timothy 1:15-17
"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again-REJOICE!" Philippians 4:4
"Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness."
Ephesians 6:14
"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never looses faith, is always hopeful and endures through every circumstance." 1Corinthians 13:4-7
"Christ will make his home in your heart as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong." Ephesians 3:17
"Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you belong to Christ Jesus." 1Thessalonians 5:16-18
"God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure." 1Corinthians 10:13
"Be still and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world." Psalms 46:10
"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb. THank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous- how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can't even count them; they out number the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are sill with me!" Psalm 139:13-18
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life." Psalm 139:23-24
"Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!" Psalm 34:8
"Be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:18-20
"The Lord your God will bless you as he has promised." Deuteronomy 15:6
"If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place. For I have chosen this temple and set it apart to be holy - a place where my name will be honored forever. I will always watch it, for it is clear to my heart." Daniel 7:14-16
I need to get more oil paints, turpintine, gesso, acrylic gray paint, drying linseed oil, and some paint brushes for it. I can only imagine how long this will take me to paint?! Because listed below are only a few of the scriptures that I'm going to be painting in this illustration.
When I actually start to put paint to canvas I am planning on going to Plesant Vineyard Ministeries for about a week (or so I hope and pray) to stay in one of their luxery cabins they have out there and start working on the painting. This is a HUGE piece that I have never ever taken on. I pray that God will be with me every step!!!
If you have a favorite scripture that reminds you of God's promises that I haven't listed. Please tell me because I need more.
I will keep you all posted on how the illustration is coming as I work on it.
"Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command- be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." Joshua 1:7-9
"You were cleansed; you were made holy; you were made right with God by calling on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and by the Spirit of our God." 1 Corinthians 6:11
"Those who wish to boast should boast in this alone; that they truly know me and understand that I am the Lord and who brings justice and righteousness to the earth, and that I delight in these things. I, the Lord, have spoken!" Jeremiah 9:24
"For I k now the plan I have for you, says the Lord, they are plans for good and not for disaster, to give you a future and a hope." Jeremiah 29:11
"The Spirit alone gives eternal life. Human effort accomplishes nothing. And the very words I have spoken to you are spirit and life." John 6:63
"Think about the things of heaven, not the things of earth. For you died to this life, and your real life is hidden with Christ in God. And when Christ, who is your life, is revealed to the whole world you will share in all his glory." Colossians 3:2-4
"Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you." 1 Peter 5:7
"This is a trustworthy saying, and everyone should accept it: 'Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners" - and I am the worst of them all. But God had mercy on me so that Christ Jesus could use me as a prime example of his great patience with even the worst sinners. Then others will realize that they, too, can believe in him and receive eternal life. All honor and glory to God forever and ever! He is the eternal king, the unseen one who never dies; he alone is God. Amen." 1Timothy 1:15-17
"Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again-REJOICE!" Philippians 4:4
"Stand your ground, putting on the belt of truth and the body armor of God's righteousness."
Ephesians 6:14
"Love is patient and kind. Love is not jealous or boastful or proud or rude. It does not demand its own way. It is not irritable and it keeps no record of being wronged. It does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. Love never gives up, never looses faith, is always hopeful and endures through every circumstance." 1Corinthians 13:4-7
"Christ will make his home in your heart as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God's love and keep you strong." Ephesians 3:17
"Always be joyful. Never stop praying. Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you belong to Christ Jesus." 1Thessalonians 5:16-18
"God is faithful. He will not allow the temptation to be more than you can stand. When you are tempted, he will show you a way out so that you can endure." 1Corinthians 10:13
"Be still and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world." Psalms 46:10
"You made all the delicate, inner parts of my body and knit me together in my mother's womb. THank you for making me so wonderfully complex! Your workmanship is marvelous- how well I know it. You watched me as I was being formed in utter seclusion, as I was woven together in the dark of the womb. You saw me before I was born. Every day of my life was recorded in your book. Every moment was laid out before a single day had passed. How precious are your thoughts about me, O God. They cannot be numbered! I can't even count them; they out number the grains of sand! And when I wake up, you are sill with me!" Psalm 139:13-18
"Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life." Psalm 139:23-24
"Taste and see that the Lord is good. Oh, the joys of those who take refuge in him!" Psalm 34:8
"Be filled with the Holy Spirit, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs among yourselves, and making music to the Lord in your hearts. And give thanks for everything to God the father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." Ephesians 5:18-20
"The Lord your God will bless you as he has promised." Deuteronomy 15:6
"If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land. My eyes will be open and my ears attentive to every prayer made in this place. For I have chosen this temple and set it apart to be holy - a place where my name will be honored forever. I will always watch it, for it is clear to my heart." Daniel 7:14-16
NEW NEW NEW
I'm new to this whole thing and later I will be posting a bigger, more lengthier blog. Just saying Hi for the first time. 1st impressions are important.... but any who's
Ciao for now!!
Ciao for now!!
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