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Marydean Draws

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January 25, 2024 all good things•books that shape me

All Good Things: January 2024

This is my blog series where I recap good things I’ve enjoyed the last month, so here goes!

I have been more intentional this month about making art a part of my work day routine. There’s always the business side of things that needs tending–bookkeeping, updating the website, checking inventory, sending orders–all the necessary things that help pay the bills, but making art is so life-giving.

Here’s a little sneak peak of some florals I’m working on right now, made with a base of waterolor + pastels, with shapes cut out (but not yet glued down) from my old sketches and paintings.

I’ve been working through the book, How to Read the Bible for All Its Worth* by Gordon Fee and Douglas Stuart. I’ve found it provides me with a very helpful framework for reading and interpreting the Bible. The authors provide an overview of Bible translations and then principles for interpreting the different genres found in Scripture: the Epistles, Old Testament narratives, Acts, the Gospels, the parables, the law, the prophets, Psalms, wisdom books, and Revelation.

One of my favorite podcast episodes from last year was an interview with Rainn Wilson on The Holy Post podcast, which you can listen to HERE. Wilson played Dwight Schrute from “The Office.” Even though Wilson is a follower of the Baha’i faith, I was so encouraged in my own faith by his perspective on the need for a spiritual life and the value of faith in our communities.

Last thing–I was encouraged by the words of Amy Julia Becker (@amyjuliabecker) on Instagram this week. She was sharing that she’s in a very overwhelming season of life and is learning to accept her limits. I feel that! She quotes Oliver Burkeman’s Four Thousand Week: Time Management for Mortals: “the core challenge of managing our limited time isn’t about how to get everything done–that’s never going to happen–but how to decide most wisely what not to do, and how to feel at peace about not doing it.” I found that helpful.

COPYRIGHT/USAGE: All writing, artwork and photos are copyright Marydean Draws. Please do not repost or resell on another website. I’m happy for you to use my coloring pages and other printables for home, school, and ministry. If you share content, please link back to the original post. Thank you!

*affiliate link. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites.

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Welcome to the blog!

I’m Mary and I’m glad you’re here! Since 2014, I’ve been sharing encouraging words, fun Bible printables, and accessible art activities.

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The November printable pack is out for my paid sub The November printable pack is out for my paid subscribers on Substack, along with this Philippians 4:6 FREEBIE for anyone to download. This pack illustrates Philippians 4:4-7  and comes with coloring pages and full color quarter-page cards. 

Today's newsletter also has some updates about my Winter watercolor classes and the November Lesterloot Christmas Market.

You can find me at the link below, by going to www.marydeandraws.com or by searching for "Marydean Draws + Substack."

Happy November!
Mary :)

https://marydeandraws.substack.com/p/marys-friday-newsletter-11626-8f7
No AI used here.🤓 Just me still drawing artwork on No AI used here.🤓 Just me still drawing artwork on my iPad. This month's Scripture printable will be out on Friday. I love how the artwork helps me remember the passage. Sign up for my newsletter at the link in my bio or find Marydean Draws on substack.
My next study in Luke is up! This is a pair of hea My next study in Luke is up! This is a pair of healing stories, but the second one takes an unexpected turn and introduces Jesus' first conflict with religious authorities. I talk about the conflict with the Pharisees and this incredible 16th century Netherlandish painting. 

Link to the study or just search for Marydean Draws on Substack!
https://marydeandraws.substack.com/p/the-gospel-of-luke-eyewitnesses-to-0a7
@sghairston2027 is a senior and we are LOVING thes @sghairston2027 is a senior and we are LOVING these photos by Jenny at @btmvphotography taken out near Peak View Elementary and behind Cross Keys Barn. They capture Sarah so well along with this beautiful place we call home. 💕We're so grateful for her life and the person she is and is becoming.
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