Update

It was a LONG weekend. My motivation has been low, as I have been very tired. I did, however manage to complete my sketchbook entries, and got a 10/10 on them. I have my first critique tomorrow on my first oil painting, so we will see how that goes. I am posting a picture of it here, so critique away if you wish!! We had to do the painting in gray scale, of items placed in front of us on a table. I am nervous about critique, and just about these classes in general. They are so different from any other classes I have ever taken before. It's not straight forward, where you read a book, take notes, print the lecture, and study.....it's very different. I just don't know what to expect.

I am really trying right now to deepen my life spiritually. I have felt so out of touch with God lately. I need to reconnect. I am doing my own "bible study" using a book I found by an author that was recommended to me. The book is called "Battlefield of the Mind" by Joyce Meyer. I got the book and the workbook. I have read the intro and Chapter 1 so far and find it VERY good. Very interesting and right on. I want to share a quote from Chapter 1 that I found very compelling:

"The truth is always revealed through the Word; but sadly, people don't always accept it. It is a painful process to face our faults and deal with them. Generally speaking, people justify misbehavior. They allow the past and how they were raised to negatively affect the rest of their lives. Our past may explain why we're suffering, but we must not use it as an excuse to stay in bondage. Everyone is without excuse because Jesus always stands ready to fulfill His promise to set the captives free. He will walk us across the finish line of victory in any area if we are willing to go all the way through it with Him."

This quote really spoke to me. It helps me see things in a different light. I need to learn more to "let go and let God" rather than dwelling in the past or worrying about the future. God will provide, in his perfect timing. He has his plan for me. As long as I am living my life for him, according to his will, I have nothing to fear.