​I've felt such a huge emotional block these last several weeks with my art practice. The desire is constant even with the strong resistance and fear that always lurks. The answer always seems to be showing up, getting to work, and making that first mark on the blank sheet of paper.

eating:: I can't seem to get enough of these sweet cherries. Cold, firm, and perfect.

smiling::  (First photo caption) "Muhammad is a Syrian refugee living in a care center in Rovaniemi, Finland. He was injured in an attack during the Syrian civil war. I've been meeting with him twice weekly to interpret his Finnish lessons into Arabic."

(Second photo caption... their farewell meeting as Gary and Greta prepare to depart from the area of his internship and leave to visit other areas of Finland, Sweden, and England.)
 "Muhammad gave us the royal treatment."

My heart wants to burst with pride and gratitude. Tears and an overwhelming joy seeing and hearing about this sweet friendship with Muhammad and other beautiful connections to good people. Playing his part with this wonderful opportunity he's been given to help build bridges of understanding and world peace. 

This is what life is all about.

loving:: my dad. The Papa my children adore.

creating:: "Ancestors II"  The Ficklins
This drawing inspired from an old family photo taken in 1919 in Louisiana picturing my grandfather (Newton Reno Ficklin) on the left holding an American flag, my great-grandparents, and great-great grandparents. My dad gifted me a copy today and I felt a great desire to sit down this afternoon and express it in a drawing. (I've felt stuck and haven't done anything for nearly two weeks. Ugh.) Through this meaningful process, my heart longs to know them and love them. (My art block seems to also be removed, as well)
​
cheering:: Eliza on as she participates as a vendor in a local craft fair selling her artwork, macrame, and potted cacti/succulents. Way to go, Pup!

baking:: Saw that Jane posted a photo on Instagram this morning. Her early morning banana bread baking session motivated me to get busy and use up all these brown bananas hanging around here. A special weekend treat. Thanks, Jane!

​So grateful and so glad
for that child she once was,
the woman she now is,

And for the gift, the balm
that is her friendship.
For this loving kindness, and listening ear;
a blessing, 
to my days.

Sharing,
you and me,
this special relationship,
these many memories.

Ours
today, tomorrow,
and for all eternity.
​