For some of us, the end of this difficult year means moving forward from a year that began with our loved ones in our lives, and it is ending without them.

One of the unsung gifts of art making is the ability to focus on a loved one's face. There are elements in the process that are never visible, and the appearance of the finish is of secondary importance.

Windows hover high above in the dark interior. Flecks of light fall through stained glass like snowflakes drifting down throughout the vast space. Instead of white crystals, the lights are gems of pure color, landing on surfaces throughout the interior. Stone that originated in the earth rises from beneath visitors’ feet into a misty space that is high enough to be a midpoint between the heavens and the top of our heads. 

This horse greets the viewer on the surface of the canvas, standing between ouerselves and the quiet, radiant patience of the stable that is his home.

Season’s greetings on the wings of birds. The printed card is lighter than a bird and travels far beyond my reach…

I was amazed such an earthshaking voice came out of a body the size and weight of a glass of merlot.

For many of us who spent time riding in winter, snow and sky were brought to another level on the back of a horse. Now that I look into these memories, I wonder if the height of the horse brings us that much closer to heaven. 

This certainly was a year when escape, nature, and space were an important part of finding a peaceful oasis. Adding fine art to fine living in nature was a wonderful experience this summer.

I began a habit of starting new projects with peacock images when I was in some trouble years ago.