Warmth From The Light Within

I  decided to add the moon to this painting.  What do you think about that????

I have always loved this kind of winter scene.  I grew up in the west, so is it any wonder I would admire the mountains, the crisp winter air and the warmth and light that comes from within an abode?  I have always loved the mountains.  Always loved the light.  This painting depicts what I have been very recently feeling.  I KNOW and LOVE the light within me...........as well as within all of you. 

11805 Huckleberry Drive - Franktown, CO.

This is the home we lived in from 1977 to 1982.  I loved this place.  It was easy to care for and the neighborhood was exceptional.  We all had homes that sat on at least 2 acres of land.  We all had children around the same age.  It was the perfect community.  Not to mention the state and the climate.  Beautiful sunshine 360 days of the year, clear blue skies, mountain view and no humidity.   When it snowed and the sun shone the next day......much like this painting......you were often blinded by the light.

The house looks much different now.   But this is how we as a family will always remember it.  Brings back such fun memories of good times, good friends and lots of fun things to do.  Our son was born here and all three children made lasting friendships while we lived here.  I always loved the ring to the address, as well.  Eleven eight oh five, Huckleberry Drive.

Lynn's childhood home

There is a story............there always is.  We all tell one.  The story can be good, bad and/or ugly.  Stories, just the same.  The most important story is about how/where we grew up.  About the early years that shaped us into what we are today.  And how we can change that story whenever need be.

This isn't my story.  This is my husband's (Lynn) story about when/how and where he grew up.  This painting is with regard to the place where he spent most of his formative years.  The place where he created very important memories.  The memories he has shared with me over all the years we have been together.  The memories that shaped this portrait.  Lynn was the oldest of five boys.  He has the earliest memory of any of his brothers when first moving into this house.

His mother (who was the best mother-in-law anyone could ever have) had the most pristine yard and home.  She was an amazing daughter, woman, teacher, wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother.  She welcomed me in to her home that Christmas eve of 1968 with open arms.  It has been an honor for me to paint the portrait of this place aptly called "home".  A home that housed ALL boys.  A home that welcomed (with loving arms) my visiting family members whenever we came "home."  The back patio was the popular hangout for visitors.  And we all came together on that spot for years.

Lynn's mother passed away in 2003.  His father continued to live in this house until he died this past Feb.  He was able to stay home, due to the loving care of two family members.  He spent his last warm months sitting out on the patio, feeling the sunshine, welcoming visitors and taking a snooze or two.  He loved his patio.  He loved his home.  It's a good story.

Photos show the progression the house portrait.  If you are a family member (extended or otherwise) and would like a free print of this painting, let me know.  I present this in loving memory of Roger and Ruby Hill.

Presentation of "Living in Spirit" at Unity in Community on August 21, 2011.

Recent watercolor projects

There is a sweet story behind the Sparrow and the Cricket.  This was a gift to my friend who recently lost her mother.  The Sparrow is a reminder of my friend's mother's prayer for everyone.  The cricket is symbolic of the child presently growing within the granddaughter-in-law.  It is a sweet story, but not one that I am privy to share.

The bowl of oranges was my attempt to work with a dark background.  Let's just call this one "fiddling around". 

Living in Spirit

A painting/photo says a thousand words.  Here you will find flexibility in the palm tree,  balance in the sun/moon, sky/water, birds of the air and fish of the sea.  The spirit in the water symbolizes life.  There is no life without water and spirit.

Quality "painting" time with granddaughter, Johanna

While daughter and hubby were away last week, I spent quality time with my dear grandchildren.  I brought some of my watercolor supplies with me.  Granddaughter, Johanna wanted me to paint a portrait of their dog, "Rose" to give to her mother.  I would rather use acrylic for portraits, but I find that I can use watercolor for still life paintings.  So, I opted to paint a single rose.  Johanna opted to watch the process.  

After a while, I suggested that she try her hand at painting.  She told me she couldn't paint, but she could

draw.  I suggested that she could paint, if given the basics.  So she opted to sketch and paint a butterfly for her mother.  I showed her some basic techniques and here is the result of her efforts.  I think it turned out quite fantastic.  Her mother was really impressed and pleased with the outcome.   It was delightful to share some "art" time with my beautiful and talented granddaughter.