New and Vintage – Joy Never Gets Old

cropped-Happy-Heart-Cover.jpgI thought I would share some photos of the past that make me smile every time I look at them and new ones that bring me joy as well.TB-pic of MeHere’s a picture of me from college. So fun to look at this photo and think of how grateful I am for the Lord who makes known his works. The Word of God has brought such a peace of presence in my life that I know it is only by the Lord’s power that that is even possible.

You make known to me the path of life; you will fill me with joy in your presence, with eternal pleasures at your right hand. Psalm 16:11

Also, I love that coat…call it my Christmas coat (It’s red, green and black plaid and I only wear it at Christmas 🙂 ). I received it years ago from a neighbor lady, Mrs. Garrett. When she gave it to me it was 25 years old and I have had it for another 25 years.

What makes it special is that when I was in second grade, her family invited me to church and to other events. They were the love of Jesus Christ to me and my family…which eventually brought me to a personal relationship with Jesus. So grateful!!!

This photo of my mom is one I absolutely love! Makes me think of Miracle on 34th Street (1947).
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I plan to keep it up all year around. Looking for the perfect vintage frame for it. It reminds me to always have a heart of a child and to be the kind of person to keep that joy alive in others.

So it is through the avenue of creating, I enjoy life and love to spread a little cheer.

Recently, my dear friend, Susan, asked me about making her a wreath with some of my ornaments. I had not done that before and jumped at the chance to make it for her.

Susan had in mind a grapevine wreath painted either red or white. A whitewash look came to mind (to give it a vintage feel, of course).

I added a tree ornament:
Vintage Christmas Trees

A few homemade tags made out of canvas and material:
Christmas Tags

Added a snowman (santa too):
Wreath Section
…and few berries and star baubles I made to add to the fun!

Add a burlap bow for whimsy-vintage charm. Thank you Susan…may you always in enjoy it!!!
Wreath:ornament

Adding more joy to this week, I was able to share “Happy Heart: Fill’er Up!” at Tree of Life Church. Such wonderful families that always touch my heart with their kindness and love!
Book Signing sign
Booksigning TOLM
Booksigning Display II
Booksigning Display

It was a great time to meet up with Angie and give her the Christmas ornaments she won from the “giveaway”.
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Also, I enjoyed this sweet treat on my last day of teaching. It is from two very talented artists that I had the honor of knowing from class this semester. Thanks for your kindness and giving spirits! So blessed by you!!!
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For you make me glad by your deeds, Lord; I sing for joy at what your hands have done. How great are your works, Lord, how profound your thoughts! Psalm 92:4-5

More weekly inspirations to come…

Keep connected to find joy in the little things in life, drawing techniques, fun projects from home school art class, more DIY projects, and future give-a-ways. Yes, GIVE-A-WAYS!!! I’ll be sending these things out by email, so if you are not on my email list yet then you can sign up below my photograph in the right-hand column. Thank you for reading and I’ll see you in the next post!

Love and joy,
♥ Michelle

MichelleMarttila.com

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