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... and I'm hoping that this massive rampaging fire will have been extinguished!

Wouldn't it be a breath of fresh air to have the maintenance of our natural resources actually be effective?

Nothing quite captures in words the breathtaking view through Yosemite Valley. Nothing that I could say would be enough to explain just how naturally spiritual this place is. It must be experienced.

I took this photograph from the popular Wawona Tunnel overlook in 2005. A bit of a hike would have taken me to Inspiration point. Alas, I had younger family in tow and making that trip was not to be. But the impact of this place was caught all the same.

Looking forward to a 2022 experience.

Agenda is Kern River > Sequoia National Park > Bass Lake > Yosemite > June Lake Belt.

Leaving August 19th

The image above is "The Valley Of Inspiration-Yosemite" (Highlight - Right Click - Open Link) https://fineartamerica.com/featured/the-valley-of-inspiration-yosemite-glenn-mccarthy-art-and-photography.html

When going into the Las Vegas Nevada area you can see, off to the west, these inviting mountains of a multitude of colors. I had always wondered what they were and decided to pack my gear and wonder over to investigate. I have to admit to being ignorant of Red Rock Canyon until I found myself loving photography. My early morning trip from the city changed everything.

I made it a destination point the next time around. But as circumstance dictated, the loop was closed about 7 miles in and we were forced to go around the fringes and stop in scenic vista road spots. It ended up being a blessing in disguise because we discovered the Spring Mountain Ranch State Park along with the little town of Blue Diamond.

From the photograph: Mount Wilson is the most recognizable and highest peak in the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area. It reaches a height of 7,071 ft with over 3,000 feet of gain from the canyon floor.

The Sentinel seems to be peaking at us from beyond the jutting cliffs along the Emerald Pools Trail in Zion National Park. It's breathtaking and a bit intimidating at the same time.

We had just made the trek from the Zion Canyon Lodge and were heading back down when I caught some pretty amazing photos of the different peaks and cliffs that were on either side of us.

I have a great fondness for these natural monuments. They are a testimony to the awesomeness of creation. They have a way of making me understand how fortunate I am to enjoy the master Creators handiwork and to share it forward to a world starving for beauty and peace.

Just sit back and imagine being there. The Sentinel peaks at 7,157 feet.

Have a great day!
Glenn

I haven't added a blog in forever. Well, not really. I mean it's been a very long time

The last several years have been challenging. The pandemic wreaked havoc on the world and affected our lives greatly. Our families expanded and contracted leaving us with a sense of hope and a realization of loss at the same time. Tragedy took our youngest daughter. There is no real full recovery from that. Just an adjustment and realization that there will always be a hole there. As believers in eternal things and in the creator, Christ, we continue to learn how to cope. Especially with the fact that all things are not in our control. Understanding the purposes may not be given to us.

Yeah... our lives are changing. So is the scope of the entire world!

Romans 8:28
And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose.

Been taking in the sights of Southern California recently with a bit of hiking. Came up with these just to post a few. Rain sure makes a difference!

"Light On Crafton Hills"
A Panoramic venue

https://glenn-mccarthy.pixels.com/featured/light-on-crafton-hills-glenn-mccarthy-art-and-photography.html

"San Gorgonio Mountain"
A Horizontal breathtaking view...

https://glenn-mccarthy.pixels.com/featured/san-gorgonio-mountain-glenn-mccarthy-art-and-photography.html

Perhaps a bit of snow in...
"Winter Horizon"

https://glenn-mccarthy.pixels.com/featured/winter-horizon-glenn-mccarthy-art-and-photography.html

Thanks for stopping by.

Glenn

It's been quite some time since I ventured into the blogosphere! Feeling a bit rusty about this whole thing.

I am constructing a new series that will include some of my older work as well as newer productions and titled "Small Town America". Included here are some examples of the work.

I love hitting the highway and exploring old towns. In September of 2016 it was a drive up the California Scenic Highway, Route 1. This is considered one of the darlings of vehicle travel. Possibly the most popular in the world. The roads took us through Fillmore, Solvang, Cambria, Santa Cruz, Pacifica, and Gilroy, the Garlic Capitol of California.

I've always admired the old perspectives of Norman Rockwell and the way he would strive to capture a bit of mom, apple pie, and baseball. The traditional American themes as he viewed them. My attempt will be at capturing small town architecture and street scenes that are becoming overshadowed by the raucous and overwhelming work of Urban power. Much of this lifestyle is under attack. Critics of the past, traditional structure, tend to stain it without even considering the 95% good that helped to establish this great place that we are privileged to be in. Here are a couple of opening salvos.

"Santa Cruz Victorian - Small Town America"


"The Lynch House - Small Town America"


"Solvang 2 - Small Town America"


Slow down and smell the roses as you travel down the backroads of this great country. Even in the simplistic world of yesteryear there are nuggets of life that are worthy of our consideration.

"When I go to farms or little towns, I am always surprised at the discontent I find. And New York, too often, has looked across the sea toward Europe. And all of us who turn our eyes away from what we have are missing life." ~ Norman Rockwell

Till next time. God Bless !
Glenn

Almost two weeks now since the San Bernardino area was attacked by a worldwide movement of destruction. That was 36 miles from my front door and an area that I have photographed in over the years. I have yet to see the outcry and memorials for this area that I have witnessed for Paris or Boston. Certainly people's lives don't matter less in San Bernardino than they do in the more editorialized and written about Metropolitan areas of the globe... do they? So i set out to give a bit of a small tribute from some of my photos that I have posted for the past couple of years...

"Kimberly Crest Manor , Vintage View" ~ Kimberly Crest House and Gardens is a French chateau-style Victorian mansion located in Redlands, California, and is registered as a California Historical Landmark.



"Lincoln Memorial Shrine Entrance" ~ This amazing memorial to the great President Abraham Lincoln is the only one of it's kind west of the Mississippi. It is tucked away in the small town of Redlands, California. I found it to be exceptionally well presented making me walk away with a greater fondness for the man and his legacy.



"Kimberly Crest - Victorian Splendor" ~ Another view of this wonderful landmark



"Caroline Park Afternoon" ~ A view from the garden of Caroline Park, Redlands, California.

This is one of those hidden little secrets that resides in the hillsides of the beautiful community. The park is surrounded by residential architectural splendor and boasts a 180 degree view to the mountains. The botanical gardens have trails for hiking, tables for picnicking, and benches for relaxation and a touch of romance. It even boasts a small memorial Redwood Grove.



I hope that we will continue to remember those who were victims of this terrible tragedy. I also hope that we will remember that they come from a beautiful and cherished area of the Untied Sates Of America. It's a place full of hard working citizens. A boiling pot of America!

God Bless,
Glenn

12/14/2015

I was pondering a question I ran across on the blogs the other day about "What Art" really defines me. I guess I would have to answer that question legitimately stating that I am open to attempting to work with variety of mediums and styles. I came into this side of the art world after many years of selling and representing other great artists that were nationally known and recognized. I have since come to realize just how great they were at this craft! Becoming a professional is hard work. If you are faint of heart, or have a fear of rejection, this is not the place to practice those feelings of insecurity.

Having room to roam can be hazardous to one's health if they are motivated by the feed back of others. I can think of several pieces that were emotionally critical at the moments that I worked on them... and all were experimental in nature. They are presented differently... and are part of the ongoing process of discovery and change.

Here's one that I produced while in the midst of losing everything. The result speaks for itself. Lots of moments like these that produced feelings I never knew existed. Starting over, while on the other side of the pendulum, is not an easy task.

Introspection



This was a spontaneous hand drawn work that came about as I finally realized that there are more grains on the fallen side than there were from the starting point. Life is but a drop of water dissolving at a rapid pace. Don't think so? Come back and see me in 30 years.

Hourglass



This digital experiment was a fun diversion. Yes, I am nuts enough to believe that what we see was spoken into existence and order by Intelligent Design! Write me off if you want. Write you off if I am right!

Creations Explosion



Okay... this is pretty self-indulgent. But it was fun to mix hand drawn work into photographic/digital alteration.

Revelatory Perception



Here is something new from the crib in 2015. Odd and surrealistic... but it tells a story if you dare allow it!

I Was Daydreaming When All Of A Sudden...



Okay... we've come to the end of this one.

Had a load of fun producing this image through various digital artistry. I have a hard time passing up beautiful old vehicles. I take quite a few photos of them, and work for hours on end to tweak the finishing processes. It's very rare that I have a turn key image. Many images are posted that I just pull out of the line-up in order to reinterpret the original.

I liked the outcome of this particular truck:



Give this gallery a look when you get the chance. http://glenn-mccarthy.artistwebsites.com/art/all/antiques+and+ambiance/all

Historical Event for January 8th...

1324 Explorer Marco Polo Dies at 69
1642 - Galileo Galilei, Italian physicist/astronomer, dies at 77 in Italy
1815 - Battle of New Orleans (War of 1812); the war had ended on 24th December 1814 but none of the combatants knew
1835 The United States National Debt is "0" for the first and only time.
1877 - Crazy Horse and his warriors fight their last battle with the United States Cavalry at Wolf Mountain (Montana Territory).
1918 - Pres Wilson outlines his 14 points for peace after the Great War
1925 - 1st all-female US state supreme court appointed, Texas (Texas... is this right? Wow, and the battle still goes on)
1937 - -50°F (-45.6°C), San Jacinto, Nevada (state record)
1945 - "Youth for Christ" organizes
1954 - Elvis Presley pays $4 to a Memphis studio & records his 1st two songs, "Casual Love" & "I'll Never Stand in Your Way"
1957 - In an article appearing in "LOOK" magazine, Jackie Robinson announced his retirement from baseball.
1958 - Cuban revolutionary forces capture Havana
1962 - Golfer Jack Nicklaus, 21, 1st pro appearance, he came in 50th
1966 -Beatles' "Rubber Soul," album goes #1 and stays #1 for 6 weeks
1968 - Jacques Cousteau's 1st undersea special on US network TV

1968 - MUSIC CHART TOPPERS: 1968
Hello Goodbye - The Beatles
Daydream Believer - The Monkees
Judy in Disguise (With Glasses) - John Fred & His Playboy Band
For Loving You - Bill Anderson & Jan Dwight.

1974 - Gold hits record $126.50 an ounce in London
1986 - Willie McCovey is 16th elected to Hall of Fame in his 1st year
1987 - The Dow Jones Industrial Average closed over the 2000 mark for the first time ever.
1992 - George Bush gets ill & vomits on Japanese prime minister's lap
2008 - New Jersey officially apologizes for slavery, becoming the first Northern state to do so.
2011 - Attempted assassination of Arizona congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords and subsequent shooting in Casas Adobes, Arizona at a Safeway grocery store kills 6 and wounds 13, including Giffords
2013 -U.S. scientists claim 2012 weather as the hottest year ever recorded

2013 - McCarthy Designs releases "Sunrise In Joshua Tree National Park"

Took a walk with this very beautiful young lady a couple of days ago to feed the ducks at a nearby pond. She was full of energy about it. As it turned out the ducks were not too receptive and instead of gathering about for a feeding frenzy, they fled just far enough to tempt us to sit and wait to see if they would come back. That didn't happen and all the breadcrumbs went to waste. Perhaps french sourdough was more to their liking! Spoiled!

On the way back we noticed this garden of roses in full bloom and full of color. Bursting! Stopped to smell them and it took the sting of rejection from the ducks away! We just have to do that more often in the day. Everything is not a crisis when things don't go our way.








"Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things." The Apostle Paul, Philippians 4:8

We have Christmas barreling straight at us and I wanted to take a moment to reflect about this holiday that brings so much Joy and Hope to Christians around the world, and plenty of goodies for those who celebrate others without the link to Christianity it self.

This part of the year can be trying for so many. We live in a time when there are those who seem to have it all... and then there are those who are struggling to make ends meet. I want to encourage each one reading this to take a moment and listen to this song that Steven Curtis Chapman penned back in the 80's. ( I also included the lyrics so that you can follow along) I want you to know that there is hope beyond the hand of man. A hope that reaches into our very souls if we will let it.



Today I watched in silence as people passed me by,
And I strained to see if there was something hidden in their eyes;
But they all looked at me as if to say
Life just goes on.

The old familiar story told in different ways,
Make the most of your own journey from the cradle to the grave;
Dream your dreams tomorrow because today
Life must go on.

CHORUS
But there’s more to this life than living and dying,
More than just trying to make it through the day;
More to this life, more than these eyes alone can see,
And there’s more than this life alone can be.

Tonight he lies in silence staring into space,
And looks for ways to make tomorrow better than today,
But in the morning light it looks the same;
Life just goes on.

He takes care of his family, he takes care of his work,
And every Sunday morning he takes his place at the church;
And somehow he still feels a need to search,
But life just goes on.

(chorus)

So where do we start to find every part
Of what makes this life complete;
If we turn our eyes to Jesus we’ll find
Life’s true beginning is there at the cross where He died.
He died to bring us . . . ( and because of it there is more to this life)

I've been busy reworking my Internet Store with new ideas and with a new idea for some of my older art work. So the Glenn McCarthy Fine Art store at Zazzle has been undergoing reconstruction! (The "Click Here For More Information Button" will take you there)

Here is a rotating panel on some of my coffee cup designs. My traditional work has always revolved around a direct inspirational message. I've been branching out into creating designs along with my art. Of course they are one and the same but in design I am considering patterns with greater weight, while experimenting with new ideas for traditional presentation.

Click on any image on the panel and it will give you the details. I think that the cups have a pretty classy quality and approach in their composition. I hope that you agree!


See other gifts available on Zazzle.


Adding this on 3/12/2013...

"Morning Fragrance" Design By Glenn McCarthy Laptop Messenger Bag by GlennMcCarthyFineArt
See Laptop Bags online at Zazzle

I was going through the communications on my personal website and found that these creations are being featured in some of my groups. Each feature varies in the length of time being posted. I am adding my image and links for you to go and browse what's happening in that particular group. The work goes from 2009 to present day and varies from Hand drawn to Digital... my usual eclectic mix. At the moment I am working in "toned images" and moving on to "restoration images" from family archives. Mostly behind the scenes photos taken by my father just after World War 2 in Germany. I'm looking forward to that challenge.

So here they are, in no particular order: CLICK ON THE IMAGE FOR A LARGER VIEW

My first Pen and Ink study, "Psalm One" and Digital "Trinity" are being featured in:
The Christianity Group, http://fineartamerica.com/groups/christianity-.html
The Black And White Art Group, http://fineartamerica.com/groups/black-and-white-art.html



"Watts Towers 2" is being featured in:
USA Artists News, http://fineartamerica.com/groups/usa-artist-news-limit-1-daily.html



Another early Digital Painting Image, "Reaching Toward The Sky" is being featured in:
Artists California , http://fineartamerica.com/groups/artists-california.html



Three Black and Whites, "Wondering About Tomorrow", "The Message", and "Introspectif de Reveur" are being showcased in:
M O U S E Group, http://fineartamerica.com/groups/m-o-u-s-e.html



"Which Way The Wind Blows" is being refocused in:
"Photography And Textures", http://fineartamerica.com/groups/photography-and-textures-make-fine-art.html



"Desert Host Impressions" and *"Twelve Pillars" are being featured in:
"3 A DAY Waiting Room Art", http://fineartamerica.com/groups/3-a-day-waiting-room-art.html



And Finally, a Re-Mastered "Cloud Watchers" is being featured in:
"Faith In Christ" group, http://fineartamerica.com/groups/faith-in-christ-.html



*Note: Twelve Pillars Is also being shown in Artists California feature.

Thanks for taking the time to view these images and your interest. If you have any question or comments please feel free to chime in here. You can also subscribe to my blog here or find me on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/pages/glenn-mccarthyfineartamericacom/112830052068502?ref=hl

God Bless,
Glenn McCarthy :)

Don't ask me what I mean by that. It's not that deep. Black and White is just a favorite of mine strictly because it asks the question of "what is the deeper meaning". Instead of filling in all the blanks it challenges me to do it. Color dazzles and puts it all right there, surface in many ways. Black and white pricks the journalistic intuition from our insides. Who lived there? What kind of life did they live? What are they thinking? What events took place there? Questions that cause us to look for deeper meaning.

The Message (New)



Waiting For Wind (New)



Atmospheric Grit (New)



My Black and White Gallery is here... click: Glenn' Personal Black and White Gallery

God Bless! (Enjoy some heartfelt music from the late Roby Duke)

I don't work out many panoramics. But when I do I am always amazed at the scope and emmense feeling of the scene. They are great for making a different statement... out of the norm.

Here are a few that I have in my gallery. The "Something Brewing" scene is a stitch together work and is available in the largest size. "Desert Vista" is my newest and has been getting rave reviews from my photographic partners at Christian Nature Photographer group. I have some more work on the boards that I expect to be adding them soon. Join my feed @ Glenn's Artwork

Last of all, make sure that you click on each picture so that you can use the MAGNIFIER for a close up view.

"Somethings Brewing"



"Eastern Sierras"



"Desert Vista"



Check out my facebook page also @ Glenn's Facebook

The internet is filled with discussions, blogs, rapid fire news releases, supposed facts, wikipedia, images, cyber campaigning, and spam! It can all be found... from religious to pornography to politics. A world of stuff that you can find by dreaming up a sentence or phrase, packing it into a search browser and seeing what pops up. I have been involved in all kinds of conversations and research for the past 10 years. I even opened up my own creative line of merchandise with the use of the new tools afforded to me. ( See my store at Zazzle ) Since I'm not nearly as mobile as I used to be, I can reach to the entire global cyberspace market and offer my wares. I can link up to all of my past friends and enemies to have a reunion. My whole life can be pasted for all to see (...sorry, that ain't going to happen)... and I have instant access to family members that I have never met.

I do think of this as a wonderful thing and try to infuse as much value into it as possible. I particularly love the music and nostalgia aspect to it... and the image sharing and creative process has been addictive at times. IT IS WHAT I DO!

Yeah, this is a wonderful way to travel and have donut store conversation. Can even play chess games and checkers with my cyber neighbors. When the day is done it all flies away into cyber space and the only package I have to carry around is what I communicated under my real name.

Nothing beats a real sunset that hasn't been conjured up in a cyber world....

There's really nothing like the different sunsets and sunrises... and everything in between. Whenever I get a little frustrated over ideas and the general way that things are developing I start chasing clouds and skyscapes. God creates a new one every day. They are never the same. Here are a couple of new releases....





And a re-work on this one...



He is always at work Creating new things!

God Bless!

Several years ago my life took a huge change of direction. The economy had changed, money was not coming into the till, and I was on the brink of total personal collapse. I can truthfully say that I had only faith, the Love of God (towards me), and the love of my family and a few choice friends that were my encouragement. I'll do a detailed journey on that someday... but not today.

Have you hit that crossroad? Feel like you're all used up and lost your grip? Maybe a look in the mirror is what you dread every morning when that sun breaks through! I heard a small voice tell me " use whatever you can grasp " It happened to be pens and paper, oils and watercolors, and a camera. I stood in an empty shop with merchandise that I couldn't get rid of drawing images and showing them to the few that came through. I learned how to use the Internet and joined Fine Art America. I worked on some causes for others. I have developed whatever skills that I may have to a certain degree. Today I'm restoring old photos from extinction for someone, I'm helping another person fit a large particular Image in a prominent place in her home... and yes, I'm working on new release work constantly. I pass out business cards and mingle... unafraid to offer my services.

Today I'm here giving you this encouraging word...

"If a man loses pace with his companions, perhaps it is because he hears a different drummer. Let him step to the music which he hears, however measured, or far away." - Henry David Thoreau, Walden

"For I wish that all men were even as I myself. But each one has his own gift from God, one in this manner and another in that."
- Saint Paul. 1 Corinthians 7:7

"You have a gift and You can use it! Get up and forget what thoughts have been rolling through your mind, say a prayer to God for yourself, and start to use the gift given to you according to whatever means you may have at your disposal! Look for the way to make that water run... and you will find it".

That is for someone out there. I'm praying for You.



Browse other gifts from Zazzle.

"When people make promises, they guarantee them by appeal to some authority above them so that if there is any question that they'll make good on the promise, the authority will back them up. When God wanted to guarantee his promises, he gave his word, a rock-solid guarantee—God can't break his word. And because his word cannot change, the promise is likewise unchangeable." The Message, Hebrews 6: 16-18

Harry Truman was famous for his saying of "The buck stops here". Considering the fact that he was the President of the U.S., there was a great amount of weight behind his words. People hang on the words of leaders. In today's society it is not uncommon to find leaders scrambling around covering there exposed behinds because of words that they said that were found to be untrue. Vetting is big business for the News Media! (When it suits their purpose ...of course)

George Bush Senior said "Read my lips... no new taxes." Then he signed a tax increase. President Barack Obama says "I don't support an individual mandate on health care." Then he pushed his mandated health care policy through. Just a couple of examples of powerful men swearing by themselves... but found to be lacking a bit of integrity.

God has all authority. When he swears, He has no other example to use except for His own integrity... who He is! Do you realize that if God had any deception... one sliver of darkness... one spot on His clothes... one chink in His armor... that we would have nothing whatsoever to hang our faith and hopes on? If He had any failures there would be no integrity or solid foundation that we could point to as solid. If Christ had one blemish... one white lie... one failure... the mandate could not be fulfilled!

"For You have magnified Your word above all Your name!" Psalm 138:2 His integrity is the most important facet to who He is. So important that He places it above His own name.

Thank You for being spotless... and trustworthy!

New Release!



Some of my other thoughts and artwork are on my blogs. Click here: "http://glenn-mccarthy.artistwebsites.com/myblog.html

Rustic Faith Crest Coffee Mug by GlennMcCarthyFineArt
More Christian Mugs

It had been years since I first saw the Towers. After picking up a relative from the L.A. Airport we decided to go by and take a look at these curious creations on the way back. It really is an impressive sight. The imagination of one man and the years of labor he put into... only to walk away!

I recommend visiting these if you are ever in the vicinity. Just make sure it is during the daytime hours because they are located in about as rough a section of Los Angeles as there is. But in the daylight hours the monument itself seems to bring out the best in everyone as though it were on hallowed ground. It is a surreal experience! Everyone has a reverential attitude. God Bless!

Watts Towers 1 Aged Effects (2 is below)



A Short History

The Watts Towers or Towers of Simon Rodia in the Watts district of Los Angeles, California, is a collection of 17 interconnected structures, two of which reach heights of over 99 feet (30 m). The Towers were built by Italian immigrant construction worker Sabato ("Sam" or "Simon") Rodia in his spare time over a period of 33 years, from 1921 to 1954. The work is an example of non-traditional vernacular architecture and American Natve art.

The Watts Towers are located near (and visible from) the 103rd Street-Kenneth Hahn Station of the Metro Rail LACMTA Blue Line. They were designated a National Historic Landmark in 1990.

Rodia reportedly did not get along with his neighbors, some of whom allowed their children to vandalize his work. Rumors that the towers were antennae for communicating with enemy Japanese forces or contained buried treasure caused suspicion and further vandalism.

In 1955, Rodia gave the property away and left, reportedly tired of the abuse he had received. He retired to Martinez, California and never came back. He died a decade later. (Wikipedia)

Watt Towers 2 Painted Effects



Watts Towers 3 Pastel Effects



A Short Video

Ended up blindly going to the Cherry Festival in Beaumont Ca. Saturday. I had envisioned it being a day of Harvesting from the bumper crop but ended up Paying $5.00 per person to enter into another opportunity for vendors to sell their wares to me. No harvesting because that went out when the water rights became too expensive and the festival dwindled to a fair in some small park in a not so taken care of neighborhood. Well, we wandered through all the vendors... the circus park and such and landed in the bandstand area where a Rolling Stones cover band (that sounded like they had practiced once) was playing. They chased us away for awhile! Finally getting hold of a program we noticed that the Alan Parsons Project was playing at 6 P.M. Honestly, I was not excited because I had not really followed Alan Parsons. We made no plans to stay but wandered back to the band area and listened to the Jimmy Buffet cover band... who were very good. We were just about to leave when the couple in front of us asked if we had come for Alan Parsons and mentioned they were shocked that he would be there. Then another person sat down next to us and parroted the same sentiment. We decided to stay. A good decision. It was a rock opera from a group of polished veterans that seemed completely out of place. They made the best of the confining stage and played a two hour set without break. Yeah, it brought back lots of good memories of music that I knew... but never really attributed to Alan Parsons. I hadn't really realized how much of a mover and shaker he was to so many great bands as their engineer. That $5.00 entry fee seemed paltry now. I recommend seeing this act if you have the opportunity!



inspirational photos

Creating controversy is just what happens when His name is brought up in conversation. I believe He is the dividing line between talking about God and pinpointing God. Thought I would pass along this thought I found while searching about his name. The link to find out more is at the bottom. God Bless!

The Name of Jesus

Over the past 2000 years, more people on planet earth have known the name of Jesus than any other name. Since 33 AD, over 8 billion people, by one estimate, have claimed to be followers of this Jesus—or Jésus or Isus or whatever the Christ is called in your language. Billions more have heard of his name. Presently, the name of Jesus can be found in over 6000 languages and more are being added every year.

On the one hand, it’s strange that this single name has dominated the last 2000 years of world history, especially Western history. For most of us, Jesus has a sacred ring to it; it sounds holy and divine. But this wasn’t the case when Mary and Joseph followed the angel’s instructions and gave their baby his name. Granted, it had a special meaning, but it was not an unusual name. The first century Jewish historian Josephus mentions at least twelve different people he knew with the name Jesus, including four High Priests. In Acts 9 we read of the Jewish false prophet, Bar-Jesus. In Colossians 4, Paul mentions one of his fellow workers, Jesus, called Justus. And some ancient manuscripts of the gospel of Matthew call the robber released by Pilate, Jesus Barabbas, which can be translated, ironically enough, “Jesus Son of the Father.”

Jesus was a common name, like Jim or John or Jerry. When Mary and Joseph called their son Jesus, there were no prayers in his name. No one used it as a swear word. No one sang songs about this name, just like there is no religion I am aware of that sings songs to Jim (except that he’s not to be messed around with). We don’t name our sons John with the expectation that over the next 2000 years 8 billion people will pray in his name. We don’t croon, “Jerry, Jerry, Jerry, there’s just something about that name!”

But common as it was, Jesus was “Jesus” by design. In Greek it is Iesous, in Aramaic, the language Jesus spoke, Yesu. Both are derived from the Hebrew, the name is Yeshua or Joshua. Joshua is made up of two parts: Ya which is short for Yahweh, and hoshea which means salvation. Hence, Mary and Joseph give their little baby the name Jesus, “Yahweh is salvation.”

Which he was. And is. Through Christ alone. Ever since the first Christmas, Jesus has been more than just a name. It’s been our only comfort in life and in death, our only hope in a hopeless world. When you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God, you may life in his name (John 20:31). There is, in fact, no other name under heaven given among men whereby we can be saved (Acts 4:12). So naturally, whatever we do, in word or deed, we ought to do in the name of the Lord Jesus (Colossians 3:17). For God has highly exalted him and bestowed on him the name that is above every name, so that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father (Philippians 2:11-12).

But let’s be clear: the name of Jesus is not a magic wand. Chanting it does not give one special powers. The power in the name is the person behind the name. In the Old Testament, names meant something. They were more than badges of identification. They often told others who you were and what purpose God had for your life. So Adam was the first man. Eve was the mother of all living things. Abraham was the father of many nations. Benjamin was the son of his father’s right hand. Moses was drawn out of the water. Peter was the rock. Barnabas was the son of encouragement.

And what about Jesus?

“And you shall call his name Jesus,” the angel told Joseph, “for he will save his people from their sins” (Matthew 1:21). More than a great teacher, more than an enlightened man, more than a worker of miracles, more than giving us meaning in life, more than a self-help guru, more than a self-esteem builder, more than a political liberator, more than a caring friend, more than a transformer of cultures, more than a purpose for the purposeless, Jesus is a Savior of sinners.

“The name of Jesus charms our fears and bids our sorrows cease; tis music in the sinner’s ears, tis life and health and peace.” That’ll sing. “All hail the power of Jesus’ name! Let angels prostrate fall. Bring forth the royal diadem, and crown him Lord of all.” That’ll work too.

I guess there really is just something about that name.

No, not just something: make that everything.

Read The Article from the source here - Click

I was a big fan of the "Twilight Zone" and the "Outer Limits". Both had their "what if" science fiction mentality with that Black and White film composition. I read the scriptures a great deal and find that God has this sense of hide and seek with reality to it. The parables of Christ, the opening stanza of the book of Proverbs, the references to finding him in the secret place, and the Apostle Paul telling us that he saw things that he could not even mention to us while caught up in the Spirit. The book of the Revelation Of Jesus Christ is still such a great mystery to us and to many of those scholars that have studied it out. The Apostle John trying to describe things in the best way that he knew how as he moved his writing instrument while looking upon the scene.

Yeah, the Bible has the most interesting "what if's" and mysteries to ponder. They have frustrated us and motivated us throughout the last several thousand years. None have been found to be untrue... and many a prophecy has been fulfilled... and still many more on the block.

Yes, I had a dream that impacted me greatly. It changed my whole perspective strictly because I am not a dreamer. I like to see things in a practical way. Tangible, hands on, physical possibilities. I like to see principles and physics rule the day. But when something is impressed upon your soul and you cannot shake it what else can you do but follow the lead? And if it is God doing it... where could you go to escape? He is everywhere!

So... I decided to not worry about the "God-a-phobes" of this life anymore... a multiplying group. No matter who you are you have to make up your mind about whether eternity exists and whether or not there is a Creator that you will one day see. And since you are reading this there is no way that you can say that you have never been challenged to find out the truth about it. It is just a choice... do I pursue to find out if God is real or do I just write this guy off as a nut job? Your choice... but regardless the clock is ticking.

"And you will seek Me and find Me, when you search for Me with all your heart." Jeremiah 29:13



TIME>>> By Phil Keaggy

I've just gathered a couple of Easter thoughts here for the season. The one thing that I would add is this... for any professing Christian it is a travesty when the powerful Resurrection is not one of the uppermost thoughts in their mind... everyday. It is the crux of even confessing your Christianity!

Does God really love us? I say: “Look to the crucified Jesus. Look to the old rugged cross. “ By every thorn that punctured His brow, by every mark of the back-lacerating scourge, by every hair of His beard plucked from His cheeks by cruel fingers, by every bruise which heavy fists made upon His head God said: “I love you!” By all the spit that landed on His face, by every drop of sinless blood that fell to the ground, by every breath of pain which Jesus drew upon the cross, by every beat of His loving heart God said, I love you. - Billy Lobbs



Easter means that this life on earth is not all there is. Jesus went “to prepare a place for us” in His Father’s heavenly mansions for all eternity. Jesus died for our sins, paying our penalty, so that we could be forgiven. He was resurrected, to prove that death has no hold on those who repent and accept Him as Savior. This life on earth is a prelude to eternal joy with our Lord. Easter is a celebration
of our eternal destiny. ~ Joanna Fuchs

That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe
in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved.
(Rom. 10:9)



The Apostle Peter preaching on the day of Pentecost of the risen Savior, says,"God hath made that same Jesus, whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ." And He speaks of Him as the anointed One, exalted at God's right hand. The Gospel is the Gospel of the Risen Christ. There would be no Gospel for sinners if Christ had not been raised. So the apostle says, "If Christ be not raised, your faith is vain; ye are yet in your sins" (1 Cor. 15:17). - H.A. Ironside


The entire plan for the future has its key in the resurrection. -Billy Graham

"A man who was completely innocent, offered himself as a sacrifice for the good of others, including his enemies, and became the ransom of the world. It was a perfect act." --Mahatma Gandhi



If you would like to add to this... please feel free to leave a comment

It's time for that long awaited siesta from this project. It has been a sprint for two and one half years... with the Internet highway and all of it's changes being all consuming. It truly is an amazing way to communicate and share what we are doing with our lives.

This Easter season has been one of much reflection about what is important in my life. Perhaps the loss of a good friend has taken a toll, or watching another long time friend struggle in his marriage... or the expectation of a new addition to my family. Perhaps the grind of conversation over the cyber waves has taken a toll, or the lack of it in spurts. It's so easy to be emotionally unattached here and forget that there are some that are truly made of flesh and bone. I've always tried to keep a demeanor that realized this... knowing that for the Grace of Christ I would be swept up into the world of "I'll say whatever I want and get in your face whenever I want" attitude that seems to be so over the top in today's world, and magnified in this medium.

I love creating... and I love it when someone else likes it and relates to it. I'll still be involved... just much less for this moment. It's a time of reflection... a time to take a pulse reading.

Here are my latest releases and Re-works as of 4-5-2012

Learning is a never ending and pressing issue. Especially in a day when technology grows faster than the speed of light. I recently revisited some of my older photos and reworked them with some of this new knowledge. It refreshed memories of my real life experience of this wonderful place also. Here are the four that came first in this new rotation of refurbishment. I only wish I was standing in God's Masterwork right now!

I will continue to refresh these earlier offerings and post them here. My gallery that they are located in is here : Mountainscape Gallery

HALF DOME



BRIDALVEIL FALLS



Half Dome From The Bridge 3/17/2011



Mountain Cathedral 3/17/2011



The Valley Of Inspiration 3/19/2011

I don't usually open up "forwarded" messages to me. But I did today to find this story. I guess I was in a storybook mood. Besides, it reminded me of my favorite guitar player who is missing a finger... claimed by an old water pump. (Reworked his image below to update it)

A king who did not believe in the goodness of God, had a slave who, in all circumstances would say: “My king, do not be discouraged, because everything God does is perfect, no mistakes!”

One day they went hunting and along the way a wild animal attacked the king. His slave managed to kill the animal, but could not prevent his majesty from losing a finger.

Furious and without showing his gratitude for being saved, the nobleman said "Is God good? If He was good, I would not have been attacked and lost my finger."

The slave replied only "My king, despite all these things, I can only tell you that God is good, and he knows the "why" of all these things. What God does is perfect. He is never wrong!"

Outraged by the response, the king ordered the arrest of his slave.

Later, he left for another hunt and was captured by savages who made human sacrifices.

While on the altar, ready to sacrifice the noble, the savage found that the victim had a missing finger and so he was released. According to them he was not complete so he could not be offered to the gods.

Upon his return to the palace, the king authorized the release of his slave to whom he said very affectionately:
"My friend, God was really good to me! I was almost killed by the wild men, but for lack of a single finger, I was let go! But I have a question, if God is so good, why did he allow me to put you in jail?"

"My King, if I had gone with you in this hunt, I would have been sacrificed for you, because I have no missing finger. Therefore, remember: everything God does is perfect. HE is never wrong!"

Often we (me) complain about life and the negative things that happen to us, forgetting that nothing is random and that everything has a purpose.

Every morning, offer your day to God. Ask God to inspire your thoughts, guide your actions, to ease your feelings. And do not be afraid. God is never wrong!

You know why this message was sent to you? I do not know, but God knows, because he never makes mistakes.......

The path of God and his word is perfect, without impurities. It is the way of all those who trust in him, as he says in 2 Samuel 22: 31.

I'm not someone who would be a touchy-feely sort. I have go to extra lengths to get in touch with my softer side, even in moments of grief and despair. Sometimes it takes the aftermath of the drama before it sinks in and really grips my inner being. Today is one of those days. Over the weekend this surreal occurrence unfolded with a phone call that one of my daughters was going to have surgery to remove a pregnancy. It wasn't voluntary by any means. She and her husband have been trying to have children for several years and this is the first time that a possibility appeared. Unfortunately it was under circumstances that put her life in peril and left them with no other alternatives. It also left them with what doctors claim to be a slim chance of it ever happening again.

There are lots of things that I cannot cope with... the greatest being to see the hopes and dreams of one of my children being taken away. The last three years have been the toughest. Being unable to do anything aside from supporting and standing in the gap praying can sometimes just leave you feeling empty. Being empty and feeling helpless is hard to bare. This too will pass... and in the end I know that God has something greater for them. I hope to be able to ask Him one day why it is that some of the most qualified and loving (...in my estimation) do not have the same chance as those many who take it for granted and really have no business being blessed with children (...in my estimation). But then again, I'm speaking from one of those times when my emotions have been touched. So... my estimations may not be worth the cyber-page that I have written on.

Last night I dreamed of horses
Coming for my soul
Taking me to places
I wasn't ready yet to go

Last night I dreamed of silence
The silence that I keep
All the things I could've said
Well, they stole away my sleep

I need to remember
The horses will come
I need to remember
How quickly they run

I want no regrets
When the horses come for me
I cannot forget
That the horses come for me

-Margaret Becker






Margaret Becker's Website is: Margaret Becker

1 Corinthians 15:16-20

If corpses can't be raised, then Christ wasn't, because he was indeed dead. And if Christ weren't raised, then all you're doing is wandering about in the dark, as lost as ever. It's even worse for those who died hoping in Christ and resurrection, because they're already in their graves. If all we get out of Christ is a little inspiration for a few short years, we're a pretty sorry lot. But the truth is that Christ has been raised up, the first in a long legacy of those who are going to leave the cemeteries. - The Message

I ask this question:

Are we a Christian because we grew up Presbyterian... Baptist... Pentecostal... Roman Catholic... Methodist? Or, are we a Christian because we truly believe in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead?

I find the Apostle Paul to be the most amazing of the Bible Apostles. He virtually becomes the spearhead of the Holy Spirit to the world through his tenacity. He never walked with Jesus Christ in the flesh. But he became the biggest apologist for the gospel through a personal encounter after the resurrection. Peter was given a commission to spread the good news to the Gentiles, yet he stayed cooped up in Jerusalem. So, God found another to get the job done. Funny, but Christ chose the very one who was having the Christians killed to confound the ones who walked with Him while he was on the face of the earth. I guess it just proves that yesterdays reality can sit and spoil too. Paul had to come back some years later and set Peter and those in Jerusalem in their place for playing favorites.

So, do we (who confess to being believers) walk as though we are just passing through, or do we entangle ourselves in world affairs that can never be resolved until He finally comes and resolves them? Is He resurrected and "alive"... or is He just a good guy who showed up and preached some nice things? I would venture to say... the latter is not enough to call yourself a Christian. Christianity is not an inheritance!

God Bless! John 3:17



Couldn't help but throw this in for good measure. To you Justin!

I can't help but wonder why so many artists and photographers are in such constant "please help me with an idea" mode. They reach out to others like a ship relies on it's sales and anchors. No, I'm not speaking of a once in awhile thing. I'm talking every painting, every graphic, every photograph they are asking for creative guidance! If fortification is what is needed at every turn of the road, you are in the wrong business. In fact, that is best attained in a classroom atmosphere where constructive criticism is expected. A big part of finding yourself in this creative effort is inspiration from within. If you are not being moved to continue on and grow in this talent through an inner vision you are doomed for failure and destined to be constantly needing someone to pull you off the ropes. That's not fun!

I know, this is more of a rant than what I would usually be writing on this blog, but maybe it's because I'm on Internet overload.... or too much coffee and sugar. And perhaps it's just because I see supposed artists that have all of these major opinions about how life should be, who should rule our hearts, and who should rule the world... but then they cannot pick a subject for their next creation! Cyberspace is an interesting place! Too much... I gotta sit down and speculate what it's really all about! ;P (Where's my belly button?)

Wow... got that off my chest! I feel better now.

We can now go about moving around the cabin... God Bless!

Those clouds are angels’ robes. ~ Charles Kingsley

“Nature is a mutable cloud which is always and never the same.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson

“A cloud does not know why it moves in just such a direction and at such a speed...It feels an impulsion...this is the place to go now. But the sky knows the reasons and the patterns behind all clouds, and you will know, too, when you lift yourself high enough to see beyond horizons.”

-Richard Bach

"We shall find peace. We shall hear angels. We shall see the sky sparkling with diamonds." - Anton Chekhov

"There is nothing like a big sky to compare some of life's trivial matters to." - The Photographer

"Don’t forget: Beautiful sunsets need Cloudy Skies…" ~Paulo Coelho

God Bless!





Matthew 26:64

The Message (MSG)

Jesus was curt: "You yourself said it. And that's not all. Soon you'll see it for yourself:

The Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Mighty One,
Arriving on the clouds of heaven."

Yes, the illustration in the photo really hits home. Anyone can pick up a camera and start clicking away... but it is so much more! Especially in a day where technology makes even the most vacationist photos look good. The stakes are higher than ever, and the competition to get the right image is larger. And with folks struggling financially, art and photography is one option that has been turned to.

In all candor, there are just too many folks out there that do not understand the toil involved from beginning to end on a piece of artistic photography. From setting up the props to sitting in sub-zero temperatures, or getting up at 3 am to travel to the right spot for a sunrise, only to have bad weather blow the entire day! Looking at endless takes and editing... sometimes not finding one image that you feel is good enough to work with. The patronizing and the criticism... so much to get to the real truth.

I have a better understanding today. Buying the best equipment does not make you a photographer any more than picking a bushel full of apples makes you a farmer... Being technically sound does not mean that it will be purchased... as much as capturing the right moment in a sound way...

Develop your gift, cultivate your talent, use the tools afforded you to the best of your ability... and upgrade whenever possible!

Oh...and always respect the efforts of others....

God Bless!

Took a flight out of California and landed in Fort Walton Beach, Florida on Wednesday December 21st. The purpose was to share driving back to the coast with my 22 year old son, who was relocating. I didn't want him rushing across the states alone because I knew that he might get road weary... and, quite frankly, I didn't want a phone call from some authority telling me they had found his vehicle in some ditch! Plus it would be an opportunity to spend some time with him, something that I have not been able to do for the past four years.

I am glad that I went... but man did I learn a lesson about being on a mission... again. He was focused and intent on arriving in California as fast as possible. He did not want to miss the Christmas Holidays in "any" way. As for me, I knew that we would make it back in plenty of time as long as the weather held out. Highway 10 just winds itself right to my back yard... give or take 15 miles. I wanted to stop and smell the roses... at least a little. A road trip to me is an opportunity to record images and view changing terrain. Little did I know that my son is an aggressive driver that had the tendency to drive through driving (barely visible) Texas rainstorms in the fast lane, in the middle of the evening, 15 feet from the bumper of the semi in front of us, my hair standing on the back of my neck, while calmly encouraging me to get some shut-eye on his shift. SHUT-EYE? It was like trying to sleep on the ledge of a cliff! I was glad that nobody was applying their brakes ahead of us... and even more glad when I took the helm! That was the first night. The second night we hit a snow storm rolling through New Mexico... but I wasn't about ready to be caught in the passenger seat. Yes, I'm a control freak when it comes to who is doing the driving.

Along the way I did have the opportunity to stop in New Orleans on a foggy night, almost run out of gas in the middle of nowhere in Texas, catch a beautiful sunset in Texas, a morning sunrise in Arizona, and some highway shots... when my son would allow me to stop for a couple of moments. This is one I caught "On The Fly". Yeah, we made it home in one piece two days and 2150 miles later. I was just hoping to have at least 24 more hours of opportunity! There's lot's more to the story... but that's for another time. Just being with one of my best friends was plenty fine for me... despite his maniac tendencies! (Ha Ha) Definitely took after his mother---> on the driving side :)

God Bless! John 3:17



P.S. I'm thankful that my son loves music that adds to the soul instead of taking big chunks of it! One of his favorites:

Happy New Year to everyone who makes a stop to visit... and even to those who pass by! I'm certainly hoping that the misfortune that the nations and the people in them have faced in the "uncertainty of these times" will take another direction this year. And if circumstances do not change, I hope that our hearts and attitudes will somehow change for the better.

Better to be at peace from within rather than to rely on the unreliable for calm.

Here is the latest slide presentation of my first 10 pictures in the gallery. 5 have been released on January 1st, 2012. God Bless you all!

For many years I had been considered to be a square, conservative, type of person because of my personal Christian beliefs and more conservative leanings. Being pigeon-holed is never easy, and when I try something new it is not easy for others to believe that I have a taste for something a little more surreal. But being eclectic is fun, and as long as I am not hurting anyone by my enigmatic experimentation... I'm happy. In fact a great friend for 30 years just purchased a couple of my new pieces while also mentioning that he "never realized that I had this talent and desire in me".

2011 was a trying year, but a great year of personal growth in photography, and photographic digital manipulation. I'm pretty exhausted, but pleased with the progress and the fact that interest has picked up. I was just signed into a Limited Edition Agreement with a growing printing and marketing business. (more on that in another blog). I expect 2012 to be even more illuminating and look forward to a new launch in it. I'm making a new commitment to the original Pen and Ink Pointillism that really intrigued me from the outset. Also to re-visit my digital files to upgrade some of my previous releases.

With that said... it's siesta time. Time to reassess... time to take a look at the compass. Leave a message as to what you are looking to do that's different in 2012. Always interested in what is happening with my friends and peers.

Here's a newer black and white release! God Bless!

I learned a couple of days ago that I was going to be traveling from Florida to California... by car... for the Christmas Holiday. A check of the weather along our route shows that the possibility of a winter storm is substantial. As an adventurous sort, that seems alright to me. But, since we are pressed to make it back into California for the 25th dinner at my mother's home, I hope the sailing will be a little more calm than predicted.

2011 has been an odd year and it seems to be ending on the oddest of notes. Our family is doing non-traditional things for Christmas. The health of some has taken a dramatically different course, others will be in other states, and another year older seems more like 40 with some. One of my daughters told me the other day that she doesn't want to hear any more disrupting news for the year and is just wanting 2011 to go away! Yeah, Christmas is going to be a great challenge this go round... the end of the most difficult of years.

I didn't write this to garner any kind of sympathy. There are always silver linings to find, and obstacles for everyone to hurdle. Just read again about how the holidays are the grayest of times for people on the brink... not the gayest of times. That is my reason for this trip... to help someone in the grayest of times... and hopefully bring lots of cheer to an otherwise dreadful experience. A good friend of mine, a very successful lawyer who underwent a huge bout with depression, found a fulfillment in serving Christmas dinner meals to the homeless at a local food bank. Our church has a Christmas Tree full of peoples hopes written on paper ornaments that can be pulled and addressed by others. Yeah, it's that time of year to dig a little deeper... and in the meanwhile maybe some of my issues will be addressed too.

Acts 20:35

"In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ” The Apostle Paul

Just praying that the weather holds... and perhaps I'll even catch a couple of really nice photographs. Silver lining... you know.

1 John 1:1-4

What Was Heard, Seen, and Touched

1 That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, concerning the Word of life— 2 the life was manifested, and we have seen, and bear witness, and declare to you that eternal life which was with the Father and was manifested to us— 3 that which we have seen and heard we declare to you, that you also may have fellowship with us; and truly our fellowship is with the Father and with His Son Jesus Christ. 4 And these things we write to you that your[a] joy may be full.

John, the instrument of this writing, was considered to be the closest to Christ, according to what some scholars and ministers have derived from their study of the scriptures. He was always part of Jesus inner circle and because of it I believe there was a point of view imparted to him that stands out from the others in his writings. He reasons with the reader about his authority,credibility, and humanity to write about Christ... letting us know that he is an expert witness. There is nothing about his approach to his testimony that would smack of some conspiracy to dismantle other religions, governments, civil discourse, etc. He just lays it out there in a God given peaceful, yet authoritative manner... knowing that those who will be listening are looking for the same thing... full joy in Christ. At the time that he wrote these words he is considered to be the last remaining of the original twelve disciples. He was so convinced, as he attests to, that legend has it that he had been boiled alive in oil by those who wanted him to recant his faith... but he survived! Then he penned these incredible words... Truly his wellspring of life must have come from the inside. It certainly didn't appear that he was living the good life vacationing on the island of exile... sipping ruby red wines and gobbling Mediterranean fruit. But he was drawing his life from a different source

St John 14:13-15

Jesus answered and said to her, “Whoever drinks of this water will thirst again,
but whoever drinks of the water that I shall give him will never thirst. But the water that I shall give him will become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.”
The woman said to Him, “Sir, give me this water, that I may not thirst, nor come here to draw"

That woman realized that she was drawing from a temporary source. She was tired of constantly having to quench her thirst in temporary ways. Life was not settled for her and she was looking for answers... through many different men. This one was not looking for the same thing as the others... but he was offering something eternal...

St John 7:37-38

"In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.
He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water."

This living water... was it a doctrine? Was it an earning? Was it a brownie button?

Verse 39 tells us what it is ... Look it up.

God Bless!

"A painting in a museum hears more ridiculous opinions than anything else in the world."
Edmond de Goncourt

"All empty souls tend toward extreme opinions."
William Butler Yeats

"Any clod can have the facts; having opinions is an art."
Charles McCabe

"Art is a subject that is inundated with opinions. In fact, that's all it is about is opinions."
Chick Corea

"As long as the reason of man continues fallible, and he is at liberty to exercise it, different opinions will be formed."
James Madison

"Change your opinions, keep to your principles; change your leaves, keep intact your roots."
Victor Hugo

“We probably wouldn't worry about what people think of us if we could know how seldom they do.”
Olin Miller

“The fact that an opinion has been widely held is no evidence whatever that it is not utterly absurd; indeed, in view of the silliness of the majority of mankind, a wide-spread belief is more likely to be foolish than sensible”
Bertrand Russell

“Make sure you have a different opinion and people will talk about you”
Arab Proverb

The greatest deception men suffer is from their own opinions.
- Leonardo da Vinci

I Cut and Pasted this definition from dictionary.com:

1. a belief or judgment that rests on grounds insufficient to produce complete certainty.
2. a personal view, attitude, or appraisal.
3. the formal expression of a professional judgment: to ask for a second medical opinion.
4. Law . the formal statement by a judge or court of the reasoning and the principles of law used in reaching a decision of a case.
5. a judgment or estimate of a person or thing with respect to character, merit, etc.: to forfeit someone's good opinion.

I was just thinking about God's opinion of me. Well... based on the exercise of thought about opinions and definition above He must have thought a great deal about me since he laid down His life for me... according to the scripture. I don't think that I was worth it... but He does. And since God really doesn't need an opinion... because He already has "all" the facts... and a monopoly on truth... I think I'll get in line with His opinion of me... and of you. We are an obsession of His, and not a byline. That's why John 3:16... and 17 are the most popular quoted New Testament scriptures in the world...

John 3:16-17

16 For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. 17 For God did not send His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved.

Not too long ago I had a good friend of mine (well intentioned, and doing everything he could to be uplifting) explain to me that because I have a creative streak about me I have a temperament that can be extreme and that I will experience higher highs and lower lows than others who are more apt to have that everyday lifestyle going on. That thought impacted me more than I would ever have imagined. I gobbled it up as a truth and chalked up many things in my emotions to that effect. But really... was it gospel? Actually...NO! If I accept and predicate the blame of any of my actions on my highs and lows it really ends up being more of a crutch for my feelings. Feelings can be good at times... but really have no brains of their own. We live in a world of oceans... with emotions. They are like the waves of the sea, constantly moving and changing according to the weather. It's everyone... not just the artistic!

I am not what could be called a traditional fundamentalist Christian. I am a Christian that believes in the fundamentals... but as applied by Jesus Christ being in my everyday life in the presence of the Holy Spirit. Everyday is a challenge, and the biggest challenge of all is to hold onto the Word of God despite a flurry of activity that may be against the direction that I am constrained to move forward in. I feel as though I am about to sink... yet I am sitting here in front of this keyboard with a cup of coffee... a 76 degree setting on my thermostat... and plenty of food in the cupboard. I am thankful in light of the problems that others have around the world. But more than that, Jesus said words that I should never forget when the boat is rocking back and forth because of the great swells in the sea... "I will never leave you nor forsake you!" Hebrews 13:5, Deuteronomy 31:6 Besides... if the boat is taking on water... and Jesus is sleeping in it after telling His disciples to "go to the other side"... then everything is going to be fine. The promise of never leaving is intact... just as long as we are with Him. And that doesn't take any kind of work on our part except to acknowledge that we "need Him" and cease from our own mental ascension (workout) that always falls short! We don't make the way... He makes the way. We don't roll up our sleeves and work it out... He has rolled up His sleeves and done "all" the work. Our responsibility is to accept it for all it's worth and live in it. Buy the whole field because the fringes are not for sale.

John 10:10

New King James Version (NKJV)

"The thief does not come except to steal, and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly."

This statement comes on the heals of a "healed blind man" being cast out by the priests of that day because... " he was healed by Jesus"... and on the wrong day! It certainly points out the distinction between what God's thoughts towards us are and what religious peoples thoughts are. Jesus, The Great Shepherd is willing to lay down his life for us... whoever we are... but the religious authorities are willing to cast us out for being healed!

Jesus' intentions are of the highest honor. He proved it! "Abundant" is no small thing.

I just recently have visited Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, March Air Force Base in California, and the Riverside Veterans Cemetary across from the base. I am not a Vet ( and probably would not have been very good in that environment) but I have children who have served in the Air Force, and my Father, Stepfather, and Brother served in the U.S. Army.

There is a solemness that I feel when stepping onto a military base where young men and women are ready to protect our country when called upon. I try to imagine the valiance of those who laid their lives down for this country... and who probably didn't feel real valiant at the time of terrifying conflict. Courage finds its way through fear, and I think to myself about that final sequence in the movie "Finding Private Ryan" where Ryan questions whether or not he was worthy of those fallen heroes. I wonder the same about myself... especially in a day of great inner turmoil that swirls around our involvement overseas, and the constant questioning of the true cause. No matter, they are the true heroes in my mind... God Bless Our Troops!

Some connections...

New Releases...

Riverside Monument



Bay at Eglin Air Force Base A View From My On Base Lodging



High Desert Memorial



Riverside Memorial Dedication



Veterans Memorial, Riverside

I was reminded to post about these new additions:

Zazzle Calendar with quotes on the months and seasons:

The Year 2012 Reflective Scenes And Sayings by GlennMcCarthyFineArt

And here's a link to my RedBubble Calendar "California Scenes":

California Scenes

God Bless!