Thursday, July 31, 2014

Painting Walls Today by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES & QUEEN ANNE'S LACE"
Painting #596    Oil on Linen   (24"x20")     Completed June 15, 2000
In the collection of Mr. & Mrs. Ralph Morris
"Another painting slideshow was just published to Utube.  

Today, I will be painting . . . . . but not on canvas.  I Am painting two walls here at my desk a nice accent color, grey.  Here's a "Before" photo I just took with my IPhone."

This message is from Adam James today                                   Thursday, July 31, 2014
"Insecurity is among one of the worst diseases that can plague a person. Insecurity makes you feel less than perfect about yourself, causes you to doubt yourself and fear life, and massively limits your happiness and achievement in general.
Luckily, once you figure out the true cause of insecurity, and how to eliminate it, you'll begin to experience fantastic shifts in your life. This is what you'll learn from this post.
Most people think that to have security you need to find something or somebody in the outer world who will give you something that will make you feel secure. No one can give you anything before you give it to yourself. If you cannot give it to yourself, then no one else can give it to you, either.
This means that anything you're seeking right now to feel secure - such as money, a job, a girlfriend/boyfriend, the approval of others, etc. - none of these will fulfill that need until you've  given yourself inner security.
"Some of the things people think they need to feel secure are acknowledgement and recognition, praise, love, fame, and fortune.
Often love and attention is demanded and sought after from others in a very specific way - so many phone calls a week, so many hugs, so many times the other person says, "I love you." Security needs can also include the need to feel the world is safe, to feel that you are special, to feel a part of something. Many of you look to others to give this to you, and you find constant disappointment.
You can satisfy your security needs yourself - you can love and accept yourself, believe that the world is safe, and acknowledge and recognize your accomplishments.
Ultimately, only you, not other people, can fulfill these needs for yourself. 
Security primarily comes from having something in your life that is bigger than yourself, something you are reaching for, something that attracts, pulls, and calls to you. It makes the petty hurts and insignificant events small by comparison.
 Still many of you seek that bigger thing in each other, rather than in your own growth.
 You might think you will feel more secure by keeping things unchanged, maintaining the status quo. Yet, security only comes from taking a risk, opening up, and discovering more of who you are.
Some people have discovered when they try to keep their world safe by not taking risks they end up even more scared and insecure. Facing fear always lessens it. You may have noticed when you did something new you felt braver and stronger in other areas also."
- Orin, Living with Joy
Intending your highest good,

Adam James"                                                                                                                                                 

Wednesday, July 30, 2014

Non-Resistance by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"PINK ROSES IN CLEAR VASE"
Painting #547 Oil on Linen  (10"x 8")  Completed September 4, 1999 

"I totally agree with the words of Unity's "Daily Word" for today."
Nonresistance
I do not resist change for I know only God, the Good, governs me.
I do not resist change, however challenging it may be. When I am called on to meet it, I know this truth: As the door to a former way of life closes, another door opens. I know that only good governs me, my circumstances, and my environment, for God governs me.
I do not resist change. I maintain my poise. I do not give way to fearful thoughts. I do not persist in the feeling that I cannot be happy in other circumstances or other places.
I find that change is easy to make when I remember that God has not given me a spirit of fear but a spirit that is wonderfully flexible and adaptable. God has given me a spirit that welcomes new ideas, new ways of living, new places, new friends. God has given me a spirit that is willing to grow, a spirit that is willing to unfold and to change.

Grow in the grace of our Lord.—2 Peter 3:18

Tuesday, July 29, 2014

Art & Meditation by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ONIONS & MELON"
Painting #501  Oil On Linen  (25"x 30")  Completed September 11, 1998
In the collection of Mr. & Mrs. Weber Gaskin

"Wow! What a revelation came to me yesterday when I attended this introduction for "Mindfulness Meditation".  What I have learned by going within and listening to my Higher Being, is being taught in a scientific and factual manner. . . . . .  right here close to Naples."
Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
When
Monday July 28, 2014 from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM EDT
Add to Calendar
 

Where
Integrative Mindfulness
3372 Woods Edge Circle, #102
Bonita Springs, FL 34134
Driving Directions
Greetings!    
 
This is an invitation to join me for an hour of information and education about mindfulness and the Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) Program.

 
MBSR is a unique program developed to help people better understand and work with all the stressors in their lives - medical, psychological and social. MBSR is taught worldwide and was recently a cover feature in Time Magazine. 

It is an education-based course in which you learn to bring the practice of mindfulness into your life, in both formal and informal ways. Learning goes on both within class sessions and at home through daily practice.
Attend this free introductory session and see if this program is right for you. Feel free to bring a friend or colleague.
Get more information
Register Now!
I can't make it
Sincerely,

Madeline Ebelini
 
Madeline Ebelini MA, RYT
Below is from Unity's "Daily Word" today
Harmony
The harmonizing power of God works in every area of my life.
Tuesday, July 29, 2014
If situations in my life feel out of sync, I pause for a moment of prayer. As I turn within, I come back to center. I pray to understand how I can harmonize with the ways of the Divine. I am reminded that “all things work together for good.” A higher power is at work in my life and in the lives of those I hold dear.
In the stillness of prayer, I relax and let go of any worry or concern. I give thanks for the power and presence of God. My life is unfolding as it should, and I am patient. In tune with God, I know what is mine to do and when to do it. All is well. I rest in this peaceful awareness and emerge with a new sense of direction, appreciation, and joy.
We know that all things work together for good for those who love God, who are called according to his purpose.—Romans 8:28

Monday, July 28, 2014

UTube Slideshow by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"Red Geraniums"
Painting #1001  Oil on Linen  (24"x 30")  Completed January 17, 2008     SOLD

"Please click on "SLIDESHOW" for 20 paintings on UTube.  I plan to do more and hopefully, I will get better at creating them.  The message below from Unity is perfect for me everyday."

Below is from Unity's "DAILY WORD" today.
Let Go, Let God
I let go and find answers within.
Monday, July 28, 2014
Confinement can be self-inflicted. Just like the monkey who reaches in a jar to grab a banana: When he makes a fist around the food and refuses to let go, he becomes stuck. Sometimes I find myself cramped and confined, stuck in patterns, beliefs, or behaviors that do not serve me well.
My return to freedom and renewal begins with realizing my limitations are self-imposed. With awareness, I can release my grip and turn to the Divine Presence. “Letting go” allows me to relax and realize I am not alone. “Letting God” leads me to answers, healing, and peace of mind. I am no longer confined to the ways of the past. As I place my faith in God, I open to new opportunities.
Happy are those who make the Lord their trust.—Psalm 40:4

Saturday, July 26, 2014

Painting #620 by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"FLORAL IN BRASS POT"

Painting #620 of 1181 paintings / Oil on Linen/ (30"x 24") September, 2000  SOLD

"This is the first painting up this morning as I'm scanning them now from old photos.  I Am so glad that I photographed right from the beginning (1987) of my years of painting.  I did not know how to use a computer yet. . . . . or a camera very well."  Karl and I were living in our beautiful home in Key Colony Beach, Florida when I did this painting.  My memories are so very good of that time in life and I'm truly them.   This summer of 2014 is especially good for me and I wish that to be also for everyone of you."

Below is from Unity's  "Daily Word"        
Camaraderie               Saturday, July 26, 2014
The love of God is expressed through my friends.
One way the love of God expresses is through friendship. I feel valued and valuable as I connect with my friends. They deepen my experience of life, and our camaraderie is mutually supportive.
With encouraging words and supportive actions, we lift one another’s spirits. We share times of joy and adversity, growing together in friendship. We accept each other as we are and hold faith in positive outcomes for one another. We share a love that has no opposition, only respect, kindness, and a sense of ease.
As I encourage, reassure, or console a friend, I am expressing Divine Love and that love is expressed back to me.

All of you, have unity of spirit, sympathy, love for one another, a tender heart, and a humble mind.—1 Peter 3:8

Wednesday, July 23, 2014

Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LADY IN PINK" (Heather)
Painting #925 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (36"x 24")   Painted in April, 2007

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"        Wednesday, July 23, 2014
Illumination
The light of a new day is dawning in my consciousness. I walk serene and sure.
Let us unite in prayer for the realization of spiritual light, which will illumine our ways in the days to come. In scriptural symbology, a new day represents a degree of unfoldment in spiritual consciousness. When the light of a new day dawns in our consciousness, it dissipates any condition of spiritual darkness that may have preceded it, just as the sunrise following the dawn dissipates the night and makes all things clear and beautiful.
As the light of a new day dawns in our consciousness, all indecision and all uncertainty are done away with. We see before us opportunities for realizing our good, for practicing good will toward all people, for loving God with all our hearts, minds, and strength. Each day, each moment offers us new opportunity.

If my people … pray … then will I hear … and will heal their land.—2 Chronicles 7:14

Monday, July 21, 2014

"Lady In The Mirror" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LADY IN THE MIRROR"
Painting #334 of 1181  Oil on Linen   (30"x24")  Painted in August, August, 1996  Archived

"This painting could have been titled "Diamonds & Furs".   Karl and I were living at Lamb Lake in Indiana when I painted this on a hot August day.  Air conditioning is always such a blessing for us.

Since transferring painting photos from old CDs this summer to an external hard drive, I have thought of making a video of the paintings for UTube.  Somebody beat me to it though and I don't know how they did it.  I felt led to Google Nora Kasten this morning and look what came up.  I just wish the photos were better quality and I believe I will learn how to do one of my own. Please click on this link."         http://youtu.be/WpmeY_LG7F0

Here is a slideshow I had of my Fiddler's Creek home.   I think I'll be able to do this.   http://youtu.be/90XYxB_xXu0

From Unity's "DAILY WORD"      INNER PEACE                     Monday, July 21, 2014
The peace of God enfolds me. I am serene.
When the busyness of daily life leaves me feeling overburdened, it is time to seek the peace of God.
I understand that God not only knows my needs, but brings me peace if I permit it. I turn to Spirit within and repeat this Scripture quietly: God is not the author of confusion but of peace. If I still feel tension or stress, I repeat the prayer until I begin to feel the calming peace of God enfolding me.
The tangle and clutter of the day disappear as my thoughts become more orderly. I am able to return to my day, not rushed or confused, but confident that God’s will for me is peace. Spirit is with me always, helping me regain peace whenever I call on the Divine Presence.

For God is not the author of confusion but of peace.—1 Corinthians 14:33 (NKJV)

Saturday, July 19, 2014

"Roses In Vienna Vase" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES IN VIENNA VASE"
Painting # 418 of 1181  Oil on Linen   (30"x 24")   Painted in August, 1997  SOLD

"Another painting from an old CD.  I wish this were a better photo because I really liked this painting.  Notice the maple coffee table.  I had kept this piece of furniture from the 1950s and 1960s "Early American" years simply because I liked it.  It blended in just fine with the "Country French" style I was doing in the 1980s and 1990s.  Renditions Fine Art of Indianapolis sold this painting in April, 1998."

Saturday, July 19, 2014         From Unity's "DAILY WORD"
Becoming
Guided by Spirit, I become all that I am.

Spirit guides me to be all that I am, all that I came here to be.  I am a spiritual being having an earthly experience. As this awareness unfolds in me, I learn to allow my spiritual nature to direct my thoughts, words, and actions every day.  As I move through my life experiences, I invite Spirit to teach me how to respond to difficult situations with grace and ease, and I pay attention to the guidance I receive. 
I let go of old patterns that may have caused pain and suffering.  I learn how to be heart-centered and develop ways to interact with others gently and lovingly. Through the workings of Spirit, I am becoming more of my true Self. I am who I came here to be.

Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.—Philippians 4:9

Friday, July 18, 2014

"Roses In Antique Pitcher" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ROSES IN ANTIQUE PITCHER"
Painting #410 of 1181  Oil on Linen    (24"x 20")   Painted in July, 1997   SOLD

"Another painting I found on a CD this summer.  Renditions Fine Art Gallery in Indianapolis sold this painting the same year."

Quote from  ADAM JAMES               Friday, July 18, 2014

"Children are naturally happier because they don't care what others think of them. They can play, laugh, be themselves, and be connected to their souls without a single worry or fear of what others think of them. This is freedom. Freedom creates happiness, joy and bliss. Freedom from the opinions of others creates tremendous joy.
 You can gain this freedom by understanding that most people are too absorbed by their own thoughts and realities to really care what you do. While you care what others think about you, others think about what you care about them. I find this funny.
 You can escape the trap of caring what other people think of you by shifting your focus from what others think about you, to what YOU think about THEM.
 Also realize that the only reason people judge you negatively or criticize you is because something you're doing is bringing up resentment or jealousy or limiting beliefs in them. When you do something that upsets someone else, it has nothing to do with you. It's their problem. It's a problem with their insecurities.
 Everyone knows that the reason you think negatively about others is because you think negatively about yourself. The world is your mirror. When others think negatively of you, or judge you poorly, or criticize you, it's a matter of their own insecurity. Secure people do not think negatively of others.
 So do whatever you want, be yourself, allow your true nature to be expressed, and if anyone has a problem, realize that it has nothing to do with you but rather their own insecurities.
 This level of liberation from others' opinions will open up infinite doors for you.
Intending your highest good,

Adam James"



Thursday, July 17, 2014

"Macy" by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MACY"
Painting #479 of 1181      Oil on Linen  (18"x18")       Painted June 12, 1998
"This painting of granddaughter, "Macy" was not executed as well as yesterday's "Megan" but the Love is just as great.  Macy was almost six years old when I painted this.  

"MACY"
Painting #406 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (30"x 24")   Painted in June, 1997

"Sure, I know these paintings were poorly done but I'm really enjoying seeing them again.  Finding these early painting photos on old CDs this summer is really a Blessing for me."

Fearless   From Unity's "DAILY WORD"
I release my fear and activate my faith.
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Fear is the opposite of faith. While fear may sometimes strike, I do not let it control me; instead, I activate my faith. I am strong; I am confident; I am fearless, because I have faith in the powerful love of God.
Anytime I face a situation that may cause anxiety or uneasiness, I pray. Praying helps me release my fears and open to the love of God. Praying calms my mind, soothes my emotions, and frees my spirit to accept the good that is mine to receive. I cannot be afraid when I am filled with the love of God.
God’s all-providing love surrounds me and each person for whom I pray. Where there is faith, there is no room for fear. In God’s love, I am faith-filled. I am fearless!
For you did not receive a spirit of slavery to fall back into fear, but you have received a spirit of adoption.—Romans 8:15

Wednesday, July 16, 2014

Megan Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"MEGAN"
Painting #235 of 1181  Oil on Linen  (16"x 12")   Painted in July, 1995
"This granddaughter came to us when she was just two years old.  What a delight she was to us.  In fact, she was a Joy!  Good memories, Megan."
Stillness
Be still and know that I am God.
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
Be still, my child, and know that I am God. I am within you, your life, your intelligence, the very breath of your being. My protecting mantle of love infolds you, and you need have no fear, for I am your eternal and everlasting refuge.
If the flood waters of fear and doubt sweep over your being and you cannot seem to gain a foothold or keep afloat, remember that in the midst of you is an ark of healing silence. Stop struggling, resisting, and fighting; surrender to the stillness of this inner sanctuary. The flood waters will recede, and the dry land (your good) will appear.
In every situation be relaxed and poised in mind and body. Be still and know that I am God. I, within you, am the God with whom all things are possible. I, within you, am the same Spirit that resurrected Jesus. No matter what your needs may be, I am what you seek.
Be still, and know that I am God.—Psalm 46:10

Originally published on October 23, 1948

Monday, July 14, 2014

Old Self Portrait by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"THE HAIRCUT"
 #673 of 1181 Paintings  /  Oil on Linen  (15"x 13")  Painted December 7, 2001

"This summer as I'm transferring painting photos from old CDs to an external hard drive, it is a wonderful trip down memory lane.  I remember exactly how I felt, where I was and even the weather while I was painting.  Of course, Karl was always with me during the painting years and the memories make me happy.

It's an eye-opener for me to realize that through the years my hair was often cut short.  In my mind I always thought of myself with long hair but that wasn't true . . . . . maybe, I just wanted my hair to be long."

Quote from ADAM JAMES today   /   July 14, 2014 
"The reason someone disapproves of you is because they disapprove of themselves. You cannot please someone who is not pleased with themselves.
No matter how great you are, they'll always find or create something wrong with you.
So why bother trying to please people?
All that matters is that you please yourself. All that matters is that you love yourself and create a life that you love.
As you do this, you'll draw more and more people who naturally love and appreciate you, and you'll quickly drop those who don't, simply because you love yourself too much to put up with people who don't value you. That, or the people who used to appreciate you less will appreciate you more, because you appreciate yourself more. Other people usually treat you the way you treat yourself.
It's a good idea to stop seeking love and approval. Love and approve of yourself, do things that are loving to yourself, and then you'll naturally draw people who love you rather than having to seek the love of others.
Not everyone will always love you, but it won't matter. When you fully love yourself, who cares if anyone else loves you? Loving yourself makes you magnetic to love, attention, friends, and the opposite sex, but you won't care. You'll love yourself so much that none of this will matter anymore.
If it doesn't matter already, congratulations, you're well on your way to full self-love. Wonderful things will result from this self-love, in just a matter of time."

Friday, July 11, 2014

Beautiful Leticia by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"LETICIA"
Painting #600 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (20"x 16")   Painted June 26, 2000

"Tish is my son Jason's wife and a dearly beloved daughter-in-law.  Karl and I had moved permanently to Key Colony Beach, Florida when they were visiting us and Tish graciously consented to sit for me.  As many of you know, it is exhausting to sit still under a spot light and let the artist stare at you and paint, stare and paint, stare and paint.  Tish did great!"

FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"             Friday, July 11, 2014
Flow
I am a divine being in the constant flow of life.
Divine energy moves in and through all of life. I experience this flow as Life itself through my breath, ideas, creativity, health, and wholeness. Life is an unceasing river of good.  Throughout my day, I am conscious of this stream of divine energy as I focus on every blessing I receive—a friend’s message, a hug, a lesson. I am energized and empowered. I am in the flow.Conscious of ways I may be blocking the flow of good, I adjust my outlook from concern to confidence. A change in attitude can make the difference between failure and success. Grateful for the energy and power of Life, I am a divine being in the flow.

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb.—Revelation 22:1
NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Monday, July 7, 2014

Destroyed Oil Paintings by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"ONE RED ROSE"
Painting #958 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (5"x7")    Painted in December, 2007     destroyed
Notice the dew drop on the leaf.  I used to think of that as a gimmick.   Why?
"SMALL WHITE ROSE"
Painting #965 of 1181     Oil on Linen  (4"x4")   Painted in December, 2007       Destroyed

"HOLLYHOCKS AT GATE"
Painting #966 of 1181   Oil on Linen   (5"x6")  Painted in December, 2007    Destroyed


"At the end of 2007 I painted many smaller paintings to reach my goal of having completed 1000 paintings in twenty years.  I did reach my goal but ended up destroying many of those paintings. As I'm in the process of transferring all my painting photos from CDs to an external hard drive for the IMAC, it is really a joy to view these old paintings.  

I'm most thankful that I took photos of my paintings right from the beginning.  The first storage or keeping records was me taking photos of each painting and putting them in an album.  The second method was storing them on floppy discs.  The third was to put them on CDs and now to the external hard drive.  I believe that I Am right and left brain thinking because I enjoy the record keeping along with the painting."

FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"             Monday, July 7, 2014
On Time
I go with the flow of time.
I live in an orderly universe where seasons change and new life emerges at the appointed time, where flowers bloom and apples ripen as designed and where I accomplish what is mine to do easily and naturally.
I need only look to nature for assurance that there is “a time for every matter under heaven.” In the summer, leaves do not rush to turn to gold and fruit does not hurry to fall from the tree. Nature is in concert with the rhythm of life.
Pacing myself, I willingly flow with life, and I find peace. I am not rushed. I meet my goals and maintain my health. I stay mindful of what is important to me and seek balance in all endeavors. With gratitude, I am fully present to this moment in time.
For he has appointed a time for every matter, and for every work.–Ecclesiastes 3:17
NORA KASTEN WEBSITE

Friday, July 4, 2014

Children Playing Cards Oil Painting by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"GO FISH"
Painting #145 of 1181      Oil on Linen   (26"x 38")          Painted in June, 1994 

"Of course, this isn't a "good" painting but I do like it because these children are my grandchildren, Kristin, Dustin and Jessica.  It was a Sunday afternoon at our home on Lamb Lake in Indiana.  Karl had taught them how to play "Go Fish" and often played cards with them.  The good man that he was, Karl secretly let each one "beat" him from time to time because it encouraged and brought them such joy.  I remember Kristin saying to Karl, after a particularly good game, "You are the bestest grandpa in the whole world".  What good memories!    Note little Jessica. . . . She's only two and a half years old and is happy, pretending she is playing too."
FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"                 Friday, July 4, 2014
Freedom
Today, and every day, I celebrate my freedom!
Who is in charge of my freedom? I am! I have been given the gift of free will. I alone choose how I will live. I alone choose my attitude. I am free to choose the thoughts I think and to speak the words I wish to speak. I can choose to rest in the Silence, where I meet with Spirit and receive guidance. If ever I feel restricted or constrained, I affirm: The Spirit of the Lord is in me, and I am free!
If I am unhappy or feeling unfulfilled, I am free to make a new choice. I choose to let go of limiting thoughts. Instead, I imagine my highest good and my limitless possibilities. I choose how I spend my time and set priorities accordingly. I live the best life I can. Today, and every day, I celebrate my freedom!
Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is freedom.—2 Corinthians 3:17

Thursday, July 3, 2014

Old Self Portraits by Artist, NORA KASTEN

"A LADY IN RED"
Painting #67    Pastel on Sanded Paper  (14"x 18")    Painted in October, 1992

"NORA AT SIXTY ONE"

Painting #500   Oil on Linen  (24"x 24")    Painted in September, 1998    Archived
"ART & THE ARTIST"
Painting # 905  Oil on Linen  (60"x 30")  Painted in October, 2006     Destroyed

"I Am still in the process of transferring my painting photos from old CDs to an external hard drive for the computer.  It's really fun, yet it may take all summer to finish.  It's interesting and amazing to me these four old self portraits don't even look like the same woman, let alone me.

Who remembers when ladies wore hats?  We thought we were so stylish and I guess we were . . . for the era.  That red hat was my last for fashion and I have such good memories of wearing it."

FROM UNITY'S "DAILY WORD"                            JULY 3, 2014
Love
I am a perpetual winner in love.
Thursday, July 3, 2014
In the children’s game of hide-and-seek, at least one player is hidden while another is seeking to find those in hiding, often with excited anticipation. Usually the person hiding is found amid shrieks of joy.
In the game of love, I don’t need to hide or seek. The truth is I am always found by love, and this is a joyful discovery. Love is here, inside me. I am a perpetual winner in love.
Whether love manifests as friendship, romance, service, or simply a warm feeling, it reminds me that the infinite love of God is with me always. I am loved beyond measure, and I share this love with others, unconditionally. I need not seek, nor can I hide from love. Love is present here and now, and I carry it in my heart.
The Lord appeared to him from far away. I have loved you with an everlasting love.—Jeremiah 31:3