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Stepping Stones of Faith and Art: A Journey of Loss, Healing, Creativity, and Testimony


A Year of Struggle

(See The Ten Commandments link under its image—please, scroll down past the cat.)

Preface

This is the first time I’ve spoken here about my Etsy shop, Creations by Quil. It began as a small gathering place for the pieces of my creative journey — early art attempts, experiments, and designs shaped through seasons of trial, healing, and discovery.

My shop is not the center of my ministry, but it has been one of the stepping stones the Lord used to lead me here. I mention it now only as part of my testimony, because the art I share there has carried quiet stories of faith, remembrance, and resilience. Each piece reflects a moment where creativity and grace met, guiding me toward the work I do today.

My Journey

This past year has been a tapestry woven with threads of creativity, challenge, and grace. My Etsy shop has been a small stepping stone — a place where I continue to share art and practical helps like chore charts and devotional printables. It is not my primary concern right now, but it remains part of my journey, and I am grateful for the lessons it has taught me about patience, stewardship, and the quiet courage of beginning again.


Yellow teapot on watercolor background surrounded by nature scene

Through Etsy, I’ve shared pieces that carry more than color and scripture; they carry stories.

The Teapot and Bible was created in honor of my sister, who passed away in the fall of 2024 after a journey with dementia and colon cancer. It reflects friendship, faith, and remembrance.

The Whimsical Black Cat, created in memory of my beloved Sam cat, carried joy and playfulness. I also lost my little dog this year, a Jack Russell Chiweenie, both pets, gone. Our hearts have been heavy with loss this year. 

The Ten Commandments with blue leaves on parchment became a symbol of devotion and reverence.

Each design is more than art — it is a testimony of resilience, love, and faith.

(The designs shown here are just samples of the pieces mentioned. The originals are sized at 16×20 inches and may not appear as clearly here.)


Whimsical Black Cat surrounded by blue flowers.


This year was not without its trials. There were invisible settings, confusing tools, and days when I wondered if I could keep going. Yet each obstacle became a stepping stone — reminding me that resilience is not about perfection, but about showing up with honesty and faith.

My daughter’s companionship in weather‑watching and shared rituals grounded me, turning ordinary days into sacred rhythms.



The Ten Commandments listed on parchment framed by blue leaves.

The Ten Commandments print is available as a high-quality 8.5x11 PDF for anyone who would like it.  Clear, bright and ready for download on Google Drive.  Here is the link for instant access to the download: 
The Ten Commandments

Quick link to the Free PDF Resources page:  Free PDF Resources page
 

 Where This Journey Is Leading

Now, as I continue shaping my devotional blog, I see how Etsy is not just a shop. It is a proving ground — a gentle invitation to trust the process — and a way to share pieces of my journey. The art I place there, and the lessons I carry through it, have become part of the foundation for this blog, which is a ministry that is both creative and prayerful.

This journey is still unfolding, but I step forward with gratitude, knowing that every chart, every design, and every story has been preparing me for the deeper work of devotion.


With Gratitude for the Journey,

~ Quil

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