Winter

"Starlings' Wave"
6x12
acrylic on panel
sold

Winter is a time to gather oneself together and store some energy that will be needed for spring. However, I find winter somewhat draining. Being that I get cold thinking about the season, much of my strength is used just keeping warm.

What I like about this time of year is how my mind slows down and I'm able to just sit and be in my own space. With a cup of hot kukicha tea in my hands, I stare out the window and watch the woodpecker take her fill from the suet. The golden finches sneak by almost unnoticed in their January garb. Only the starlings disrupt the peace but even they can be amusing.

This year I've been honored with an acceptance into the annual Oxford Fine Arts Fair, May 28-30. My time is now divided between my large dog portrait on the easel now and creating smaller works for the show. I'm very excited to participate in such a beautiful venue. I have to thank my friend Alex Alampi for encouraging me to apply. He truly helps me broaden my horizons.

So here I sit in Soulful Studios trying to balance calm with anticipation and renewal with work. Success to me is the ability to do just that. Perhaps the birds will tell me what I need to know. Where's that tea?