Tuesday, April 14, 2015

Faces of Strength - a Mom with a Global Heart

"Lori's Heart"
Mixed Media on Panel
12x12
In my last post, I shared about Lori.   This post, I hope to inspire you with her strength story.

For Lori, it all started at a church youth group about four years ago.  The topic was about an organization called “Feed My Starving Children.” a non-profit committed to feeding malnourished children.  She thought it would be a good way for her own children to be involved - “kids helping kids.”  

About two years later, after Lori became the president of her parent/teacher association she was given a huge task.  The superintendent suggested they come up with a community service project for the middle schoolers.  The idea to do something with “Feed My Starving Children” kept coming back to her. 

The idea was sealed when she saw they had a mobile packing day event which allows groups to pack meals at their own location.  She says she felt it was a way for the students to be “globally connected.” It was a chance to “reach beyond our borders.”

It took a big step of faith and a ton of letters, followup and fundraising. As a result of her step and that of many other community members, there were: 
  • 108,000 mobile packs
  • 510 volunteers
  • 3 different packing sessions
  • 14 pallets of food

298 children fed for one year!

Lori says she learned “not to limit God with what my idea of possible is. All things are possible.”
Can I hear an amen?

Tuesday, April 7, 2015

Faces of Strength - What Do You Have a Heart for?

"Lori - in Progress"
Oil Pastel and Acrylic
12 x12
Have you ever met someone who is so purposeful about her calling?  

That is my friend Lori - another strong subject in my Faces of Strength series. 

Besides being a wife and a mother of two teens, Lori has a real heart for children.  She had always wanted her own children after holding babies in her church nursery.  

After starting her family later in life, she believes family to be the most important foundation.  As her children are now older, she says its important to develop relationships with them as they mature.

So what happens when this determined wife, mom and PTA president decides to help starving children and make a global impact?  

I will share the details of Lori’s mission in my next post.

Meanwhile, what do you have a heart for? What mission would you be willing to exert great strength for?
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts in the comments below.

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

Keep Your Head Up

drawing, affirmation, faith
"Keep Your Head Up - design sketch"
©Antonia Ruppert
Ink and Watercolor on Paper
6.5x11
Keep your head up. You can do it. Stay Positive. It will work out.

Today marks the first day in this new month. Its a day for pranks according to my daughter but, I think its a day for new beginnings.

So encourage yourself.

I submitted this design idea to a new training center that is looking for art.  I loved the message and thought you would also appreciate the positive vibe.

I dedicate this creation to my godson BJ and my dear friend Anita.

Keep your head up.