Mary and Martha in one day

I've been getting a bit arty of late.  I suppose I always have had an arty edge, but generally I've been an arty-minded person, just one who lacks art ability.   

I am of the view that art is subjective which means mine is as good as the next person's.   The next person to me being either Adam or Andrew.... so yeah, my art will do.

I decided a long time ago to dig out some paint and write scripture verses on different walls of our house.   Part of me was worried that Adam would see me painting on the walls and decide that it was a good idea and copy me.   However, about a week prior to my wall-painting I went into the study to find he'd drawn on one of the walls there with red and orange pencil.  

Andrew and I discussed what I should paint on the wall, the hall just as one enters the front door.   We decided on this,

"The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my saviour, in whom I take refuge"  Psalm 18:2

Straight, to the point and good to dwell on.  I'm glad I did it, and am sure I'll paint more elsewhere.

A few posts ago I'd mentioned my intention to invite neighbours round for a pre-Christmas meet-up.  Well, that day was 2 days ago and it went brilliantly!    Only 2 people I'd invited didn't come and they came over to tell me in person that they wouldn't be there as they were escaping the freezing Northern Ireland climate for the sunny beaches of Florida for the Christmas period.  

So we had 8 adults and 5 children (including the 3 of us) packed into our living room and dining room.   It went really really well!  Everyone chatted and the kids were really well behaved - totally pulled out every single toy stored in the dining room, but they played together and peacefully.  

People kept telling me what a good idea inviting people round was, so I think I'll do it again next year, or at other holiday times such as Easter or during the summer.  

Months ago my sister-in-law shared a quote with me that she'd read somewhere,

"Hospitality is not about perfection, but about connection."  

I really like that quote and maybe I'll write that in my kitchen next-time I get an urge to paint....