Cloud9 Design

{FREE GIVEAWAY: we choose virtues kids cards & poster!!}

Posted by: cloud9design on: May 15, 2012

Why Choose Virtues

Let’s be honest, instilling virtues in kids is hard work. But can it be fun too? We think so. In fact, there’s no better way to learn. So We Choose Virtues brings memorable catchphrases, endearing characters, and just plain fun to simply inspire character that lasts. It’s the best choice you can make for the kids in your life.

Proverbs 22:6 says “Train a child in the way he should go,

and when he is old he will not turn from it.”

We Choose Virtues is a great system that you can incorporate into your home bible study and help illustrate and teach your children what virtues are and what character is.

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We Choose Virtues was created by Heather McMillan, out of her love for children and her desire to see them reach their personal potential.  As a preschool teacher and a children’s pastor, it concerned her how often she came across children whose lack of self control, honesty and perseverance was almost debilitating.  How could they succeed in life without the skills that come from good character?

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We Choose Virtues offers a great assortment of products and we were lucky enough to get one of their brand new products called Virtue Clue Cards.

Included in a plastic carrying pouch with a velcro button closure, are 13 brightly decorated cards.  These cards are the perfect size to fit in a purse and take with you wherever you go.  They feature The Virtue Kids, their names, the Virtue catchphrase and antonyms, and on the back a “You can do it” challenge.

The virtues included are:  Attentive, Content, Gentle, Obedient, Diligent, Forgiving, Honest, Kind, Helpful, Patient, Perseverant, and Self-Controlled.

In addition to the cards, we also received the Family Character Assessment and Kids Memory Verses,  Bible Heroes, and Truths, which are both FREE on their website…so make sure you go and check those out!!

We received  The Teacher’s Virtue Cards for families and the The Kids Virtue Poster.

The The Teacher’s Virtue Cards for families comes with 12 Faith-based Parenting Character Cards.

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The virtues included are:  Attentive, Content, Gentle, Obedient, Diligent, Forgiving, Honest, Kind, Helpful, Patient, Perseverant, and Self-Controlled. And the cards say “I am…Attentive” to reinforce the value when the child says it.

There is a brief story about the characters (Kids of Virtueville) like Oboe Joe (OK, whatever you say, I will obey, right away) who plays his oboe under the direction of his conductor. He obediently plays his oboe in the marching band.

  • There are “teachable moments” questions to start a discussion in your family about the depth of the virtue and character trait and how it applies to life and situations.
  • There is a Memory Scripture Verse and a
  • Virtue User Challenge which the family can try to complete tasks related to the virtue.

This is a fantastic tool to use in you family to teach your kids about values, virtues, character traits and about living godly lives.I highly recommend this  product! It is perfect for single mothers like me who want to raise their child(ren) in a godly way, with values, virtues and character.

My son and I have so much fun with the activities and he know what the words mean, and we enjoy the silly games and tasks on the back of the card after we have read the story. Get a set of these cards for your family for lots of fun, learning, and laughter! :)

And the Poster is a great reference tool to use on the fridge or on your child’s bedroom wall or door to make the lessons even more memorable!

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Kids Virtue Poster $14.99

Hang this up on your refrigerator or at the front of your class so you can refer to this complete list of all the Virtues, their Catchphrases and Antonyms several times a day! Inspire virtue and manage behavior at once. This piece of our system is a MUST HAVE and the new THICKER quality will help it last!

Finding the best Virtues tools to fit your needs is super easy!

They offer products designed for Public School and Private SchoolFamily, Kids ChurchHomeschool, and even tools for Youth Mentors.

The system is available in both Community (without Scripture) and Faith-Based (with Scripture) versions.

…Simply Inspire Character that Lasts!

Get 15% off your purchase of any of these great products NOW when you use my REFERRAL LINK.

CLICK HERE.

And to ENTER TO WIN!!!

We Choose Virtues is giving away

1 FREE set of The Teacher’s Virtue Cards for Families and

 The Kids Virtue Poster  to one lucky reader!

That’s an almost $50 dollar valued prize!!!

***Just leave a comment on this post telling what virtue means to you and how this giveaway will bless your family. And be sure to include your email so the winner can be contacted and receive their prize!

The winner will be chosen at random on May 31th, 2012. Good luck and I hope We Choose Virtues and the kits that Heather offers will bless a multitude of families. God Bless you! :)

Instilling virtues and values into our children is a hefty task, but with God and scripture as our guide, we can make it fun, easy, memorable and a wonderful experience for our families!

Deuteronomy 6:6-7(NIV)

These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up.

<img src=”http://www.wechoosevirtues.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/Virtues8.gif” alt=”" border=”0″ />

{happy new year}

Posted by: cloud9design on: January 2, 2012

found this lovely art that sums it all up.

cannot find the artist name. please comment if you know!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

May 2012 open doors wide and may opportunity abound.

may love shine brightly in your life

and may you let your light shine brightly in the lives of others.

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD,

“plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.

jeremiah 29:11

God’s blessings

{the whole world belongs to you}

Posted by: cloud9design on: December 26, 2011

{Loisestart on etsy}

 

wishing for you a spiritual awakening.

to carry you into this new year.

blessings and abundance.

when you realize there is nothing lacking.

the whole world belongs to you.

doors will fly open.

{heartofalion on etsy}

opportunities will abound.

dreams will come to fruition like magic.

believe it.

believe in yourself and the beauty of your dreams.

{valentinadesign on etsy}

follow your heart.

give thanks.

abundance is all around.

if you choose to see.

and receive it.

 

{stillwatersart on etsy}

love has come,

{lepetiteelefant on etsy}

harmony is here,

prosperity overflows,

{paintingchic on etsy}

health,

joy,

and hope.

are here and now.

be blessed.

As you reflect on the year passed

and let go 

of feelings

and things

that don’t

serve you.

be sure to stay hopeful

and recognize

see,

know,

and listen to

and really hear

the beauty all around you.

{susan kettner on etsy}

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.

{christmas bunting + diy no-sew bunting crafts}

Posted by: cloud9design on: December 7, 2011

When I was browsing Pinterest, I saw this gorgeous bunting from Anthropologie (which is unfortunately sold out) :( inspired me to create a DIY version myself.

There are lots of cute DIY bunting ideas on pinterest too. Although I’d like to do a muted bunting burlap with lots of natural wood and elements from nature. Something like this…from luxandlace.

Here are some DIY ideas I found:

{and be sure to check out this step-by-step tutorial at the sweetest occasion. super cute!}

{ no-sew bunting tutorial}

{not 1, but 2 etsy treasury features}

Posted by: cloud9design on: November 17, 2011

My Angel Wings Burnout Tee is featured in a treasury by OlympiasAnd....................................My Angel Wings Burnout Tee is Washed Grey is featured in a treasury by Dream Version

Not too shabby when you consider I just reopened my etsy shop, and there are only 2 items in it right now! lol! I am working on some new paintings and lots of new stuff though…I can’t wait to add more items to my shop!!! ;)

Big thank you to the 2 treasury curators!!! I appreciate it!! Feeling very blessed!! Go click all the  lovely etsy shops featured!!! Great stuff!!

{birds of a feather…hope is the thing with feathers}

Posted by: cloud9design on: November 8, 2011

{birds of a feather...hope is the thing with feathers}

So I was feeling very inspired by the lovely etsy shops luminology & unitedthread on etsy today. And they were both Etsy Featured Sellers whose interviews really spoke to my heart and soul.

I wanted to say with much gratitude, thank you again for speaking truth and encouragement into my heart. I am proud to belong to such a kind and loving community or artists who encourage, inspire, build up, and help each other. So I curated a treasury of some really talented artists on etsy. I love the neutral palatte and how it speaks of hazy skies, and pillowsoft feathers, wings in flight, and feeling connected by being encouragedto follow your bliss, spread your wings and fly! ;) Which, is my wish and hope for you today.

Please go click the links of all of these lovely shops on my treasury ~ {birds of a feather…hope is the thing with feathers} and show them some love! :) Oh and feel free to tweet the treasury too or FB it! Thank you! Let’s spread the love!!

 

{11.02.11 ~ November 2nd ~ Thankful for This Beautiful Morning}

Posted by: cloud9design on: November 2, 2011

I'm thankful for this beautiful morning {image by cloud9design}

{11.02.11 ~ November 2nd – Good Morning! I am thankful for this beautiful morning. The colors in the sky remind me of God‘s divine providence and His care for us all. He painted the sky in soft shades of lavender, coral, and rose against the endless cerulean blue sky, and I watch as the sunburst emerges above the shadowy treetops on the horizon. I sit in awe.

Each day He gives us the promise of a brand new day. Full of possibility, grace, mercy, love, hope, & faith. Each day is a blessing, and a gift. Enjoy it. Unwrap it. Accept it. Rejoice in it! And graciously remember from whom it came. I am grateful for God’s abundant blessings and for this glorious brand new day.

Check out the video below from Mandisa & TobyMac called Good Morning. It’s a great uplifting song to listen to in the morning! :)

This is the day the LORD has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it. ~ Psalm 118:24 

{11.01.11 ~ November 1st ~ Thankful for Country Roads}

Posted by: cloud9design on: November 2, 2011

 

country roads take me home

{11.01.11 ~ Today I am thankful for the dust-filled country roads, and the cadence of my tires crunching slowly over the gravel. I look around in splendor and marvel at the beauty around me. The trees create majestic shadow-filled tunnels that end in a bright burst of sunlight as the sunshine peeks through the openings.

Time stands still for just a moment as I meander down memory lane. Here you will find no cold slabs of concrete, or the hollowness of a city street. No, here you find everything. If you slow down enough, you can hear and see miracles all around you. The mother bird feeding her babies in her nest, in all the glory of her sweet melodious birdsong.

The squirrels scurry across the road, and woodsy jackrabbits hop with their soft grey fur blending into their surroundings. I see a beautiful doe leading her precious white-spotted fawns into the meadows. Then comes the brilliant buck, with horns heralding strength and might as he leaps effortlessly over fences.

Cattle are grazing on the hill, and mustard-hued clusters of wildflowers cover the fields like a golden blanket.

Yes, I take sheer delight in this leisurely drive with windows down, sunroof open, the breeze blowing through my long hair. The radio is turned down…because the best music is nature’s song. And my heart is bursting with thankfulness and joy.

 

Have a very blessed day! What are you thankful for?

 

{Just listed ~ Limited Edition Angel Wings Tee}

Posted by: cloud9design on: October 21, 2011

Angel Wings Washed Black Burnout Tee with White Screenprint size Large

My etsy shop is finally open again! It’s been a few years, but I am selling the last-run of my clothing line, and lots of new goodies are coming soon! I’m really excited to update my Etsy shop and offer some new and exciting things!

Just listed this Angel Wing tee in my Etsy shop. This is a limited edition. These shirts are buttery-soft vintage feeling shirts. Super comfy!

 {BUY IT HERE}

SPREAD YOUR WINGS AND FLY!

{serene sky, illuminate, and believe : on my instagram}

Posted by: cloud9design on: October 4, 2011

{serene sky ~ by cloud9design on instagram}

There is a serene

and settled

majesty

to woodland scenery

that

enters into the soul

and delights

and elevates it,

and fills it

with noble inclinations. 


~Washington Irving

{illuminate ~ by cloud9design on instagram}

When you possess light within, you see it externally.

~Anaïs Nin

{believe ~ by cloud9design on instagram}

The future belongs to those

who

believe

in the beauty

of their dreams.

Eleanor Roosevelt

I was feeling super-inspired by the Daydream Lily blog today…I love Liss’s style! It’s sooo me! I swoon over dreamy, romantic, soft photography. I have been using instagram on  my iphone for awhile, so I thought I’d share a few of my favorite photos I got.

I love the effects and the dreamy vintage quality of photos I capture with it. I feel like I’m walking around with my Holga, getting awesomely beautiful lomography shots. :) If you don’t have the app – go out and get it! :)

I hope you’ll comment with a  link to your instagram. I’d LOVE to see the shots you are all getting in this gorgeous autumn weather!

Stay tuned, for a great giveaway really soon!

Have a blessed, bliss-filled day!

~Amber

{you are enough brave girl}

Posted by: cloud9design on: September 7, 2011

{cloud9 design}

*You may download this YOU ARE ENOUGH BRAVE GIRL art print here.*

You are enough, brave girl. Really enough.

Please don’t listen to those negative voices telling you otherwise. Those are just lies. We all have been through struggles, hard times, feeling defeated, loss, pain, sadness, and other things that try to get us down. But we have to stop comparing ourselves to others and really remember exactly who we are.

We are not what we do. Our job does not and never will define us. Our weight does not define us. Our clothing does not define us. Our loved ones do not define us. Our house or car or any other “thing” does not define us or give us our identity. Who we know does not define us. It doesn’t matter what “they” think. The only thing that matters is what God’s opinion of us. We matter to Him.

We need to stop putting ourselves down when we try to live up to the unattainable image of “perfect” that the media has us trying to live up to. We women are all doing the best that we can and the truth is we need to stop being so hard on ourselves…and well, start LOVING ourselves.

You see…we are our own worst critics. But we can overcome this. You are not alone. You are enough. Just as you are.

You matter.

This video is for you…

{NATALIE GRANT – PERFECT PEOPLE}

You are accepted.

{John 1:12 – I am God’s child.

Yet to all who received him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God}

You are dearly loved.

{Colossians 3:12 – I am chosen of God, holy and dearly loved.

Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience}

You are secure.

{Romans 8:28 – I am assured that God works for my good in all circumstances.

And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.}

You are significant and chosen.

{John 15:16 – I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit.

You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit, fruit that will last. Then the Father will give you whatever you ask in my name.}

You are a conquerer.

{Romans 8:37 – I am more than a conqueror though Christ.

No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.}

You are saved by grace.

{Ephesians 2:8 – I am saved by grace.

For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God}

You are wonderfully made.

{Psalm 139:13 – For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made}

You have a PURPOSE.

Jeremiah 29:11 – “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”

{There is more…please read the passages below in your bible to be immersed in the

TRUTH about WHO YOU ARE!! }

The Word of God Says in Jesus Christ…

I am faithful(Ephesians 1:1)

I am God’s child(John 1:12)

I have been justified (Romans 5:1)

I am Christ’s friend (John 15:15)

I belong to God (1 Corinthians 6:20)

I am a member of Christ’s Body (1 Corinthians 12:27)

I am assured all things work together for good (Romans 8:28)

I have been established, anointed and sealed by God (2 Corinthians 1:21-22)

I am confident that God will perfect the work He has begun in me (Philippians 1:6)

I am a citizen of heaven(Philippians 3:20)

I am hidden with Christ in God (Colossians 3:3)

I have not been given a spirit of fear, but of power, love and self-discipline (2 Timothy 1:7)

I am born of God and the evil one cannot touch me(1 John 5:18)

I am blessed in the heavenly realms with every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3)

I am chosen before the creation of the world(Ephesians 1:4, 11)

I am holy and blameless (Ephesians 1:4)

I am adopted as his child(Ephesians 1:5)

I am given God’s glorious grace lavishly and without restriction (Ephesians 1:5,8)

I am in Him(Ephesians 1:7; 1 Corinthians 1:30)

I have redemption(Ephesians 1:8)

I am forgiven(Ephesians 1:8; Colossians 1:14)

I have purpose(Ephesians 1:9 & 3:11)

I have hope(Ephesians 1:12)

I am included(Ephesians 1:13)

I am sealed with the promised Holy Spirit (Ephesians 1:13)

I am a saint (Ephesians 1:18)

I am salt and light of the earth (Matfthew 5:13-14)

I have been chosen and God desires me to bear fruit (John 15:1,5)

I am a personal witness of Jesus Christ (Acts 1:8)

I am God’s coworker(2 Corinthians 6:1)

I am a minister of reconciliation(2 Corinthians 5:17-20)

I am alive with Christ (Ephesians 2:5)

I am raised up with Christ (Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 2:12)

I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realms(Ephesians 2:6)

I have been shown the incomparable riches of God’s grace (Ephesians 2:7)

God has expressed His kindness to me(Ephesians 2:7)

I am God’s workmanship(Ephesians 2:10)

I have been brought near to God through Christ’s blood (Ephesians 2:13)

I have peace(Ephesians 2:14)

I have access to the Father(Ephesians 2:18)

I am a member of God’s household (Ephesians 2:19)

I am secure(Ephesians 2:20)

I am a holy temple (Ephesians 2:21; 1 Corinthians 6:19)

I am a dwelling for the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:22)

I share in the promise of Christ Jesus (Ephesians 3:6)

God’s power works through me (Ephesians 3:7)

I can approach God with freedom and confidence(Ephesians 3:12)

I know there is a purpose for my sufferings (Ephesians 3:13)

I can grasp how wide, long, high and deep Christ’s love is (Ephesians 3:18)

I am completed by God (Ephesians 3:19)

I can bring glory to God(Ephesians 3:21)

I have been called (Ephesians 4:1; 2 Timothy 1:9)

I can be humble, gentle, patient and lovingly tolerant of others (Ephesians 4:2)

I can mature spiritually (Ephesians 4:15)

I can be certain of God’s truths and the lifestyle which He has called me to (Ephesians 4:17)

I can have a new attitude and a new lifestyle(Ephesians 4:21-32)

I can be kind and compassionate to others(Ephesians 4:32)

I can forgive others(Ephesians 4:32)

I am a light to others, and can exhibit goodness, righteousness and truth(Ephesians 5:8-9)

I can understand what God’s will is (Ephesians 5:17)

I can give thanks for everything(Ephesians 5:20)

I don’t have to always have my own agenda(Ephesians 5:21)

I can honor God through marriage (Ephesians 5:22-33)

I can parent my children with composure(Ephesians 6:4)

I can be strong(Ephesians 6:10)

I have God’s power (Ephesians 6:10)

I can stand firm in the day of evil (Ephesians 6:13)

I am dead to sin (Romans 1:12)

I am not alone(Hebrews 13:5)

I am growing (Colossians 2:7)

I am His disciple (John 13:15)

I am prayed for by Jesus Christ (John 17:20-23)

I am united with other believers (John 17:20-23)

I am not in want (Philippians 4:19)

I possess the mind of Christ (I Corinthians 2:16)

I am promised eternal life (John 6:47)

I am promised a full life(John 10:10)

I am victorious(I John 5:4)

My heart and mind is protected with God’s peace(Philippians 4:7)

I am chosen and dearly loved (Colossians 3:12)

I am blameless(I Corinthians 1:8)

I am set free(Romans 8:2; John 8:32)

I am crucified with Christ (Galatians 2:20)

I am a light in the world (Matthew 5:14)

I am more than a conqueror(Romans 8:37)

I am the righteousness of God (2 Corinthians 5:21)

I am safe(I John 5:18)

I am part of God’s kingdom (Revelation 1:6)

I am healed from sin (I Peter 2:24)

I am no longer condemned (Romans 8:1, 2)

I am not helpless (Philippians 4:13)

I am overcoming(I John 4:4)

I am persevering (Philippians 3:14)

I am protected(John 10:28)

I am born again (I Peter 1:23)

I am a new creation (2 Corinthians 5:17)

I am delivered (Colossians 1:13)

I am redeemed from the curse of the Law (Galatians 3:13)

I am qualified to share in His inheritance (Colossians 1:12)

I am victorious(1 Corinthians 15:57)

Be blessed! :)

{free mp3s from amazon and k-love + shazam app}

Posted by: cloud9design on: September 1, 2011

{image via weheartit}

If you love music as much as I do you’ll love this! :)

Amazon has thousands of FREE mp3s available for download here.

And what’s even more awesome is that you can store your new downloads on the new Amazon Cloud – which gives you 5gigs of FREE space to playback your new tunes!!

Also you can get free mp3s on itunes from K-love.

{image from weheartit}

And if you always wish you knew who sang that really great song you keep hearing on the radio – the Shazam iphone app is peeeerrrrrfect for that! I use mine all the time. You just point your phone at the radio, car stereo, or tv, and you get the artist name, album name, album artwork, song title, lyrics and even the tour dates for the artist! Really cool stuff!

Happy listening folks! :)

{make each moment count}

Posted by: cloud9design on: August 29, 2011

via my flickr ~ cloud9design

remember to:

make.

each.

moment.

count…

be mindful of your thoughts as you go about your day.

be present.

focus your attention on what matters most.

smile. :)

be thankful for this moment…

download a printable PDF ~{ here}

{the donkey and the well}

Posted by: cloud9design on: August 20, 2011

 

One day a farmer’s donkey fell down into a well. The animal cried piteously for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do. Finally, he decided the animal was old, and the well needed to be covered up anyway; it just wasn’t worth it to retrieve the donkey.
He invited all his neighbours to come over and help him. They all grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well. At first, the donkey realized what was happening and cried horribly. Then, to everyone’s amazement he quieted down.

A few shovel loads later, the farmer finally looked down the well. He was astonished at what he saw. With each shovel of dirt that hit his back, the donkey was doing something amazing. He would shake it off and take a step up.

As the farmer’s neighbours continued to shovel dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it off and take a step up. Pretty soon, everyone was amazed as the donkey stepped up over the edge of the well and happily trotted off!

MORAL OF THE STORY:

Life is going to shovel dirt on you, all kinds of dirt. The trick to getting out of the well is to shake it off and take a step up. Each of our troubles is a stepping stone. We can get out of the deepest wells just by not stopping, never giving up! Shake off the dirt and take a step up, and soon you will be out of the hole you were in.

 

We can use life’s problems, troubles and suffering to produce strength, wisdom, perseverance, patience and a lot of other wonderful virtues in us that will help us succeed in life. The dirt thrown at you can be used to increase your stature, your being, and your life. See it as a blessing!

What happens to you

isn’t nearly as important as

how you react to it.

Remember the five simple rules to be happy:

1. Free your heart from hatred – Forgive.

2. Free your mind from worries – Most never happen.

3. Live simply and appreciate what you have.

4. Give more.

5. Expect less

 

TAKE ACTION! DON’T JUST REACT!

Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it”

This is a great article I found on the symbolism of the donkey as it relates to our deliverance and healing shame.

 

Don’t stay stuck…keep on going!!!

 

{brene’ brown :: ted talk}

Posted by: cloud9design on: August 14, 2011

 

Dr. Brene’ Brown talks in this Ted Talk about shame, authenticity, connection, wholeheartedness, fear, perfectionism, worthiness, and vulnerability. As a researcher and social worker, she talks about compassion, courage, bravery, and the ability to live wholeheartedly. She explores how many people live life with fear and shame and the inability to connect and feel belonging.

Wholehearted people have a willingness to live without fear. They fundamentally believe that “what makes you vulnerable makes you beautiful.”

Joy, gratitude and happiness come from living wholeheartedly. She says we should tell our children they are all imperfect beings destined for struggle, but you are worthy of love and belonging.

Brene’ say the way to wholeheartedness is this:

Let oursleves be seen. Deeply seen. Love with our whole hearts, even though there is no guarantee.  Practice gratitude and joy. To feel vulnerable means I’m alive. We should say to ourselves: I AM ENOUGH.

 

Check our her website for more information.

{always believe in miracles}

Posted by: cloud9design on: August 3, 2011

{original mixed media painting by Amber/Cloud9 Design}

FREEBIE:

I made this beautiful quote into a nice printable, downloadable PDF

you can print out and hang it on your wall for inspiration.

So check it out here: alwaysbelieveinmiracles

I hope you enjoy it!!! :) Please spread the love and share it with friends!

love & light,

Amber

{do what makes your heart sing}

Posted by: cloud9design on: August 1, 2011

 {lovely wheatfield etsy print found via pinterest}

This is my background for my computer right now. Very inspiring. I love how the butterfly symbolizes growth.

Beauty.

Change.

Rebirth.

Becoming…

A metamorphosis.

“There came a time when the risk to remain tight in a bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom.”
- Anais Nin

{daily truth for today – august 1, 2011 ~ via brave girl’s club}

This daily truth is my favorite because I have been contemplating some changes that would lead to in honoring my dreams lately. It is through much soul-searching, much soul-nourishing, and prayer that I have come to find a path that feels true and right.

Thank you to all the Brave Girls for being such an inspiration and for these poignant Daily Truths that always come at just the right time.

Whatever it is that you feel in your heart that you are meant to do, please do it brave girl. You are meant to share that beautiful part of yourself with the world. Do not let fear scare you. Do it anyways. You have nothing to be afraid of. You can do it. I BELIEVE IN YOU!!!!! :)

Be brave. Be you. Honor yourself.

What is your brave and beautiful heart calling you to do?

Do what makes your heart sing! :)

{believe in magic}

Posted by: cloud9design on: April 26, 2011

Vellum wall hanging, originally uploaded by footballgirlaly.

Here’s a great quote by one of my favorite childhood authors, Roald Dahl. He wrote Charlie & The Chocolate Factory which was a book that touched my heart and opened my imagination to possibility and wonder….books are paramount in the education and inspiration of our youth. Get a copy of it today and read it to your child, grandchild, or a child you know, and feel your own inner child revel in the magic of his words. ;)

“And above all, watch with glittering eyes the whole world around you because the greatest secrets are always hidden in the most unlikely places. Those who don’t believe in magic will never find it.”
— Roald Dahl

{inspiration on flickr}

Posted by: cloud9design on: January 8, 2011

Indian Summer., originally uploaded by Benedict..

 

{new etsy taste test tool: search & shop superbly}

Posted by: cloud9design on: December 17, 2010

Etsy just came out with a new curated search tool based on the items you choose, and gives you a list of recommendations based on your taste. This is a really handy tool for sorting through the ocean of amazingness that is etsy.com. It helps you streamline your search and wade through the seemingly endless ocean of wares while also introducing you to new talent and beauty on the site.

I found some amazing new artists, designers and photographers with an eye for detail. And the vintage and romantic clothing picked for me was exactly what I would pick for myself.I really love elloh’s Ode To The Library print:

and theloveshop’s THINK HAPPY BE HAPPY print.

and ShadedMemories’ drops of light photograph

and ThatGirlNaNaNa’s i’ve loved you so long print

So overall this is a great new tool. It would be great for picking out unique gifts for your loved ones this Christmas! Have fun with it!

Try out Etsy Taste Test for yourself today!

{Thanks to Holly Becker from decor8® for introducing me to the tool! :) }

{children’s christian coloring pages}

Posted by: cloud9design on: October 19, 2010

Let It Shine

 

Author, speaker and artist Karla Dornacher has adorable Christian Coloring Pages available for download on her website. She is truly using  her gifts to the Glory of God!

These beautifully drawn coloring pages are perfect for homeschool, preschool, Sunday School or just for a fun activity for parents or grandparents to do with their kids and grandkids!

“Coloring Pages are a great way to teach children GOD’S WORD and WISDOM in a fun and creative way.
Download and print as many copies as you need… for your children, grandchildren, neighbors or Sunday School Class!
Encourage your kids to share the Word with others by coloring and sending their masterpieces to family, friends, nursing homes or even to the brave men and women in our military!”

SonFlower

Meditate on This

God's Glory

Season Coloring Page

 

{Children’s Book Review: Children Of God Storybook Bible}

Posted by: cloud9design on: September 10, 2010

The Children of God Storybook Bible is a collection of beloved Bible stories written by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and presents the idea of God’s forgiveness and reconciliation to children. Each of the stories emphasizes God’s desire for all people to live in community.

Desmond Tutu retells more than fifty of his most beloved stories, artfully highlighting God’s desire for all people to love one another and to find peace and forgiveness in their hearts. Many of the finest artists from around the world have been selected to illustrate the stories.

In an attempt to create the first truly global Bible for children, the artists have been invited to portray the stories with the style and richness of their own culture. Their stunning color illustrations allow readers to experience the Bible stories as if they were there—with Adam and Eve in the garden, with Noah on the ark, with Abraham in the desert, and with Jesus on the mountaintop.

Every story shows how God works through history and ends with a short prayer, which personalizes the message for each reader’s own life. Archbishop Tutu’s wisdom, compassion, and sense of humor shine throughout, as he reminds us that “We are all God’s children.”

Archbishop Desmond Tutu was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1984 for his lifelong struggle to bring equality, justice, and peace to his native country of South Africa. In 1986, he was elected Archbishop of Cape Town, the highest position in the Anglican Church in Southern Africa.

Tutu is currently the Chair of The Elders, an independent group of global leaders who are working to promote the shared interests of humanity. In 2009 Tutu received the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian honor. He is known for his great love for children, as well as his powerful and profound understanding of the message of Jesus Christ. The Archbishop lives in South Africa with his wife, Leah. They have four children and seven grandchildren.

“In the spirit of celebrating children all over the world, each illustrator in this book has been invited to draw on their own unique and rich cultural heritage in their portrayal of these Biblical stories. Their art is truly a marvelous reflection of how we are all made in God’s image.” –(Archbishop) Desmond Tutu

***

My review:

This book  is a delight – absolutely enchanting. The illustrations beautifully portray the message of love and forgiveness found in the scriptures. The book is easy to read and quickly captures the attention of young children by masterfully telling the bible story through amazing art drawn by artists from around the world.

Each  page has it’s own artistic style yet somehow, the pages all fit together nicely like a beautiful quilt sewn together.

This bible blends all areas of the world together as you are reading it; when you see different cultures dance across the pages in bright colors and you see the spirit of community weaves the thread that binds the book together. We are all God’s children.

It is in the artistry that the words of this bible come alive for both the parent reading the story and the eagerly listening child. Children are visual learners and we must hear the word to have it really enter our heart and not just our minds.

I recommend this bible to any parent that believes in the importance of sowing the seed of the word in their childrens’ hearts, and I pray that you and your families are blessed on your journeys and that their love of the Lord grows with each storytime.

My son loves this bible and I love reading it with him. He really likes the pictures and the prayer at the end which he repeats after me. If you are interested in buying this book from Zondervan, you can purchase it here. You can even download some of the stories in MP3 audio format for free!

{the sketchbook project}

Posted by: cloud9design on: August 31, 2010

The Sketchbook Project: 2011

I’m really looking forward to participating in this and viewing the Texas exhibition. It’s a very cool project that shows how connected we all truly are. Brilliant idea.

{psalm 37:18}

Posted by: cloud9design on: August 17, 2010

{photo credit carmelscribe}

{be still}

Posted by: cloud9design on: July 13, 2010

When you find yourself in a situation that’s over your head, don’t give in to fear, but trust that God is able to sustain you in the midst of trouble.

{for good}

Posted by: cloud9design on: July 11, 2010

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love Him, who have been called according to His purpose.”Romans 8:28

{don’t give up}

Posted by: cloud9design on: June 17, 2010

So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up.

~ Galatians 6:9

Do not give up.  You reap what you sow. Your great reward is coming soon. Have faith. God is in control. :)

{challenges to inspire you}

Posted by: cloud9design on: June 7, 2010

{summer marriage challenge from women living well}

{fast a meal and pray for unsaved family members – fam club from girltalk}

{wake up early to seek the lord – 5am club from girltalk}

{praise you in this storm}

Posted by: cloud9design on: May 30, 2010

{photo found via flickr by ipraythereforeiam}

This painting I found on flickr really portrays the emotion in the Casting Crowns song, “Praise You In This Storm”.

See the video here.

Casting Crowns \ Praise You In This Storm

I was sure by now
God you would have reached down
And wiped our tears away
Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say “Amen”, and it’s still raining

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear Your whisper through the rain
“I’m with you”
And as You mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

I’ll praise You in this storm
And I will life my hands
For You are who You are
No matter where I am
Every tear I’ve cried
You hold in Your hand
You never left my side
And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I remember when
I stumbled in the wind
You heard my cry
You raised me up again
My strength is almost gone
How can I carry on
If I can’t find You

As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
“I’m with you”
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise the God who gives
And takes away

I lift my eyes unto the hills
Where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord
The Maker of Heaven and Earth

{may his face shine upon you}

Posted by: cloud9design on: May 30, 2010

{photo found via flickr}

May the Lord bless you and keep you.
May the Lord make his face to shine upon you;
and be gracious to you.
May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you;
and give you peace.

Numbers 6:25

Hi there! I'm a believer, proud mommy of the sweetest little boy in the world, web/graphic designer, artist, writer, bookworm, & shutterbug, who loves vintage, thrift shop finds, adventures, beautiful flowers, live music, laughter, and cooking yummy meals.

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My art on etsy.com: Cloud9 Design Studio

This blog is for: sharing love and light...my faith, visual inspiration, photography, music, parenting & family resources, natural living, cooking, fitness, fashion, & promoting handmade, indie artists & designers.


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