What would a personal blog be without a Year In Review on the last day of December? Truth is, I always have a period of reflection at the end of every year. I think about all the things that happened over the course of the year, what I did, and what I learned. Always, I am left with a feeling of hope for the year to come. One thing that I don’t do anymore is say to myself, I can’t wait for this year to be over so I can get a fresh start. I think losing that attitude happened around the time I turned 40. I realized that what I was doing was wishing my life away. Once you reach a certain age, all days – even the lousy ones, are considered a gift. My sweet, darling Patty – the elderly woman I was privileged enough to care for taught me that. December 31st was her birthday, and today she would have been 94 years old. She always wanted to have a dinner dance on her birthday, ‘and I’ll dance every dance.’ she’d say. As I type this I can hear her whispering those words in my ear. It always makes me smile.
This morning, at the advice of my friend and fellow artist Kyra, I decided to put together an art quilt of (nearly) every painting I completed in 2013. As I sat back to admire my handiwork I realized that I was looking at a map of the last 365 days of my life.
As with tendencies to reflect on certain periods in time there were paintings I felt terribly proud of, while others I could have done without. My proudest moments displayed next to ideas gone flat.
There’s something else, though; something that brings me comfort. My skill, my creativity, my technique has improved over the past year – I can see it; and as with anything we practice, if we keep at it long enough we’re sure to get better and better, right?
I look at Life the same way. I’ve been at it for so long now, you’d think I’d have it mastered by now. 
Craig and I will be leaving for a much needed vacation soon. We’re handing our home and our dogs over to my trusty nephew who will hold down the fort as we completely unplug, Indiana to Internet. I look forward to reconnecting with you upon my return. Happy New Year, everyone. xo