Feathers.

Well, 2012 did not go as I anticipated. Mid-way through my path took a detour. As many of you know I'm going through treatments for breast cancer, of which I have been told my prognosis is good. I still have a way to go, but am looking forward to having a better 2013!

This detour has made me stop and reflect, more than I usually do, and I'm looking forward to seeing how my future unfolds as I hope this experience is giving me some more insight than I had before. I'm not sure how this will come through in my art, but I know it will somehow.

Most people know that birds are among my favorite subjects to paint—and for years I have heard people share some very personal reflections about their connections they have with them. For me it is also a deep, even spiritual connection—not only in painting, but also in my life, many experiences I have had resulted from this connection to birds, and nature.

Right around the time of my diagnosis I found a barn owl primary feather, while walking my dog (it's not where I would really imagine finding one), it felt like a sign from the universe that things will be okay. It may be silly, but I like the idea and for all the stories that people have told me over the years about how special birds are to them, I will take them as a good sign. Next time you come across a feather, I hope you smile.

I wish you all a Happy Healthy New Year!