What if your time painting could also be time spent in His Word?
That question is at the heart of Hydrangeas & His Word, my watercolor workbook released in August. It brings together two things that have been part of my life for many years: my love of flowers and my faith.
Today, I want to share a little of the story behind it.
From Portugal to a Life of Faith and Fellowship
I grew up in Portugal, where Catholic faith is deeply woven into the culture. After moving to the United States decades ago, faith continued to be an important part of my life, along with the friendships and communities I found through ministry.
Over the years, I have belonged to Moms of Preschoolers and Moms in Prayer International, participated in Bible studies, and led groups. Through those experiences, I have had opportunities to pray with other women, study Scripture, and encourage one another through different seasons of life.
Along the way, I have gathered many favorite Bible verses, words I return to for comfort, guidance, hope, and gratitude.
When I began creating this book, I had the opportunity to share a few of those treasured verses through my artwork.
Why Hydrangeas?
If you know my work, you know how much I love flowers. Hydrangeas, with their generous blooms and delicate petals, are among my favorites to paint.
For Hydrangeas & His Word, I created 14 hydrangea designs, each paired with a Bible verse. Each design includes a finished painting for inspiration and a sketch to help you begin.
My hope is that the words become as meaningful to you as the flowers you paint.
You might pause over a verse before picking up your brush, think about its meaning as you add color, or bring someone to mind who needs those words of encouragement.
A Quiet Moment to Paint and Reflect
There is something lovely about making room in your day for a simple creative activity. A little water, a brush, a few colors, and a flower waiting to bloom on the page.
You don’t need to be an experienced artist to enjoy this book. Begin where you are, take your time, and let yourself enjoy the process.
Perhaps you’ll paint at your kitchen table in the morning or settle into a quiet afternoon with a cup of tea. You might enjoy the book with a friend, your Bible study group, or someone who has always wanted to try watercolor.
However you choose to use it, I hope it gives you a reason to slow down and spend a little time creating while reflecting on His Word.
A Gift with Personal Meaning
I also created this book with giving in mind.
Hydrangeas & His Word is a thoughtful gift for a friend who loves flowers, a Bible study leader, or someone who could use a little encouragement. You could write a personal note inside the cover or pair it with watercolor paints and a brush.
It is an invitation to make time for faith and creativity, whether you give it to someone you love or keep a copy for yourself.
An Invitation from My Heart
This book holds a little of my own story: my roots in Portugal, the fellowship I have found through ministry, the Scripture I treasure, and the flowers I love to paint.
It makes me happy to think of these hydrangeas finding their way to your table, with words that might speak to you just when you need them.
Explore Hydrangeas & His Word in my watercolor workbook collection.
Come as you are. Pick up a brush. Create something beautiful.
With love,
Ceci
