Recurring State of Gratitude!

Gratitude
"I wish always to remain in the recurring state of gratitude!"
A very simple statement, however, a very tall order!
When I hear toxic statements, to a sensitive person, it's like chalk scratching on the blackboard of my soul! Now I don't pretend to walk on water, but I do wish there was some sort of rewind button that could make us all understand the toxicity of our unfiltered statements and how they impact the one's around us.
I find if I try to, just look around me and see gratitude in small things, this shakes me into the awareness of gratitude.
I have traveled afar and have enjoyed my travels, however, home, always seems sweeter upon my return.
I have seen the poorest of the poor in the streets with missing limbs, begging and I have seen the wealthiest of the wealthy and can only imagine their extravagant lifestyle.
Which plight would any of us trade for a day?
Let us assume for a moment, we choose the plight of the poor! Let's imagine what they might be grateful for, if given the opportunity!!!
On a basic level: Clean water, the sweet nectar that sustains life. Wholesome food that goes out of the front door of the supermarket. Clothing that is clean and mended and not rummaged thru and delivered in a black plastic bag. A stable roof, medical care.
Assuming that anyone reading this blog has all these basic needs met, where can we start to build upon the foundation and awareness of daily gratitude.
Lets start with clean sheets. Maybe even the smell of coffee brewing in the morning.
How about that scrumptious scone?
Let's start micro analyzing: A flashlight that works. A pencil that is sharpened. Two socks that come out of the dryer and match! Are we getting the picture???
Let me be always, aware and grateful, of all that has been bestowed upon me. Let me repel the infectious darts of toxicity. To hold my tongue when necessary and bestow an act of kindness in place of harsh words. This be the recipe for recurring gratitude, I do believe!

Break Forth in Song!

Break Forth in Song
Angels we have heard on high
Sweetly singing o’er the plains,
And the mountains in reply
Echoing their joyous strains...
Doesn't she just make you want to belt out a tune? You all know the chorus, and a, one and a, two and a, three.
This is one of my hand-sculpted angels. Her face is made out of air drying clay and her body fashioned out of electrical wire. Now for the best part, her dress is made of sheets from a convent in Newport, Rhode Island. The vintage cotton was so soft and of great virgin quality. Now really, what else would you do with this kind of fabric other than angle clothes?

Refrain

Gloria, in excelsis Deo!
Gloria, in excelsis Deo!

Guardian Angels!

                               Family click on photo for larger view
This very sweet photo is of my husband's grandparents. There are volumes that could be written about this courageous young couple. They gave to their children a legacy of love and devotion and a true sense of family. There is a profound connection with this beautiful young woman and a history that only a family can comprehend.
I layered the photo with several old textures using different blending modes and opacities. Found the music sheet to be very appropriate and added more texture by coloring the flowers pink.

Oh Little Tree!

Rosemary for Remembrance 
"I will honor Christmas in my heart and try to keep it all the year." Charles Dickens
This tree is a gift from two very special people. They keep the spirit of Christmas all the year just by being who they are. Kind, generous, and thoughtful are just a few words to describe them. This tree of Rosemary will always be remembered, as this herb is intended to do. It fills the house with smells of the holidays and will be cherished always!

Playing with Layers & Blending Modes!

Watch Your Step
Playing with layers and blending modes and it feels like I have made some progress. I am liking the mood and the rich tones of this photo. Can't wait to try another and add more clarity to the flowers.