Visit the Abbey of the Arts online retreat platform to access your programs:

Login Here
Back to all

Visual Meditation: Birthday Blessings

I have had the gift of spending the last week by the sea, a time of retreat, rich reflection, and abundant blessing.  Today is my birthday and we head back home.  I take with me a gathering of gifts, some of which you will find below here.

All photos taken this last week on the Sunshine Coast in British Columbia.

© Christine Valters Paintner at Abbey of the Arts:
Transformative Living through Contemplative & Expressive Arts

Become a fan of the Abbey on Facebook, follow this blog on Facebook, friend me on Facebook or follow me on Twitter

You might also enjoy

Feast of St. Francis

St. Francis at the Corner PubApproaching the door, you can alreadyhear his generous laughter.He stands on the bar upside down for a momentto get a new perspective on things,a flash of polka-dotted boxersas his brown robe cascades over his head,sandaled toes wiggling in the air

Read More »
October 2, 2026

Monk in the World Guest Post: Natalie Gould

I am delighted to share another beautiful submission to the Monk in the World guest post series from the community. Read on for Natalie Gould’s reflection A Wooden Cross from Assisi. In October 2000, I traveled to Assisi, Italy. During a two-and-a-half-mile walk through the

Read More »
September 30, 2026

11 Responses