Reed's Parade

About 4 weeks ago, I posted this on Facebook:

 Today I was thinking that I wanted to paint something that has inspired me in the past. WELL, watching Homewood march in the Rose Bowl Parade in Pasadena California, was a thrill. Seeing our hometown represented in such a cool way was awesome. But honestly, the best part of it was seeing this kid, Reed, playing the drum with the kind of pride that stings your eyes. I know I am obnoxious about how much I love Homewood. But really, this is the stuff! Since then, we've watched Reed lead the drum line with such joy and charisma. He mostly uses his walker (My daughter wanted me to mention). But this day, his band mate pushed him in his wheelchair. 

After posting this little painting, the response was overwhelming! 

It seems that everyone has been inspired by Reed. Reed is a triplet (which I did not know). His parents are believers (didn't know that either). Here was her response to the painting: 

So, of COURSE Lindsay has the painting!

Here is the photo that the painting was painted from:

The girl pushing Reed, did so for SIX MILES that day! Talk about selfless! Her name is Markeyla. 

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace. 1 Peter 4:10

The drumline with Reed Johnson and Darren Holbrooks. 

This painting was a major blessing for me. It was very humbling because I know that I did not gift myself with the ability to paint or the ideas for paintings. I am amazed and thankful for the gifts that He has given me. Nothing gives me more joy than using His gifts for His glory. If you haven't tried it, you are missing out. 

What are your gifts? How can you use them to glorify God? Ask Him. Then buckle your seatbelt!

Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.

1 Cor. 12:4-6

Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. James 1:17

  I made prints of "Reed's Parade". They are $20 signed and numbered. Partial proceeds going to the band. I hope to do something special with the money to possibly help out the new drum circle that they have started for kids like Reed. 

If you want to purchase a print, email me at liz_landgren@yahoo.com

$5.00 will be added for shipping 

My little sister

New favorite subject for morning middle school carpool stories:

"The the life and times (and shenanigans) of my little sister,  Kate"

This morning's story:

I was in high school. Kate was in Jr. High.  One evening I was sitting on the couch watching a movie with a boy that I liked. He was a possible love interest. The jury was still out. 

In walks Kate..............wait for it......

Holding a cup of hot water, 

shaving cream, 

and a RAZOR. 

Yep. 

She sat on the floor in front of us...

And shaved her legs. 

If you could have seen the face of the 7th grade girl in our carpool when I told this story.

I HAD to illustrate this scene. 

Ps. Kate if you are horrified at the sharing of this classic, well. Sorry. 😘