Spring Comes

Winter is cold and gray... but... spring comes.
What we see every day in the news is sad and scary... but... spring comes.
Coronavirus occupies our thoughts and conversations... but... spring comes.

We are now beginning our fourth week of being at home all day every day. It's been even longer for my daughter's family on the East Coast where the numbers of those testing positive are staggering.  When the weather allows, they take their little one out for walks.  A few days ago she sent me this picture from outside their apartment and said, "The cherry blossoms are blooming anyway."

Things seem to be falling apart... but... spring comes.

I painted this in response to Sara's Inspiration Image "Strength & Hope for April's Inspiration Collaboration.  She says, "... there is always some beauty to be found, some hope to carry on."

Spring symbolizes hope. Pink blossoms bring hope of fruits and the coming green. Eggs in a bird's nest bring hope for new life and the sound bird songs. Spring comes... and brings hope.

Original Oil Painting on 8"x 10" Wrapped Canvas
To purchase this little painting, just click Spring Comes.

Bird Nest With Three Blue Eggs

"Let's paint with pink!" she said as we got started, and I'm so glad she did.

I love it when my niece texts to ask if we can paint together.  Painting is brand new to her, and it's fun to watch her work through the frustrations then reach success.   

I think that painting together lends itself to relationship building.  Because we're each facing our canvas rather than each other and because our eyes and hands are occupied, it's a good set up for real conversation.  

She begins her first year of teaching soon... lucky students!

Original Oil Painting on 6"x 6" Canvas Board.

[SOLD]

Robin's Nest with Two Eggs

Our back porch has become our favorite "outdoor living space" (as they call it on HGTV). No matter what season or weather, there are always birds chirping.  I'm not sure which bird says what, but I love hearing them.  I don't know where they hide their nests, but I love knowing they're there.

This nest was the perfect get-back-into-it project for me after a couple of months without painting.

AND... what a wonderful weekend!  I got to be a part of a painting workshop taught by Cheri Wollenberg at Welcome Home Retreat. It was a perfect balance of laughing... learning... relaxing... creating...!

The technique for this one didn't involve a paintbrush for a long time.  We used rubber gloves, scraps of cloth dipped in paint, and then an eraser.  

Lo and behold... it worked!

Yay!!

Here's a little peek at the relaxing part.  Don & Jackie prepare such delicious meals and take such good care of us while we're there!

Original Oil Painting on 6" x 6" Wrapped Canvas.
[SOLD]