This week, we had rain and the start of some summer storms. I love it when it rains really hard, and since we have a metal roof, we hear it that much more.

My cousin texted me in the morning and said her two-year-old daughter woke up at 4 am to ask her to turn off the rain. We both had a good laugh.

Unlike her two-year-old daughter, I love a good rainstorm. It’s soothing and a built-in sound machine. I need a dead quiet, pitch-black room to sleep in, but I welcome a good storm every now and again.

When I was little, during a big storm, my dad would wake me up. With my tired eyes and body, he would carry me outside, and we would watch the lightning and listen to the thunder. It’s a core memory. And I think it’s a huge part of why I love storms.

So, in honor of the storms, I thought I would paint some ducks that, ironically, need an umbrella.

It was also Memorial Day, so I painted to commemorate those who lost their lives for our country’s freedom. It reminds me of how privileged we are to live in America. Something that can be easily forgotten and taken for granted.

The hare and tortoise and the mini ant picnic are a peek into my brain, into the creative whimsy of my imagination. I love the ant picnic because everything about it is mini.

The Balm started as a habit, turned into a discipline, and was, from the beginning, rooted in an invitation. An invitation for obedience and receiving.

It hasn’t returned void. I’ve become more confident with my pencil, brush, and colors. And besides all the mechanical stuff, my relationship with Jesus is completely different because of the experiential relationship I now have with Him, and most importantly, am aware of.

Taking part in this invitation and discipline is a joy. It’s restful, and there are no expectations. I simply get to receive.

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