"So this is Christmas. . ."

Winston - last year

I've been working so hard this season, I've barely had time to recognize it's Christmas. . .if not for the music playing in my studio I may well have forgotten to acknowledge it.  Truth be told, I'm feeling extremely lucky and blessed to have the work.  I've been getting lost for hours finding and losing edges, choosing backgrounds, mixing just the right colors, cleaning brushes and palette. . .all with a big "thankful" bubble hovering over my head.  I'd like to share the work, but commissions are surprises yet to be sprung - an honor code, so to speak.

Channeling John Lennon and Yoko, I've been listening to Sara McLachlan's version of "Happy Xmas (War is Over)  on her Christmas "Wintersong."

Here's a sampling of the lyrics with the startling thought that much hasn't changed!  A reminder, dear people, this was released in 1971 (40 years ago) referencing the VietNam war:

"So this is Christmas

And what have you done

Another year over

And a new one just begun

And so this is Christmas

I hope you have fun

The near and the dear one

The old and the young

A very merry Christmas

And a happy New Year

Let's hope it's a good one

Without any fear

And so this is Christmas

For weak and for strong

For rich and the poor ones

The world is so wrong.

And so happy Christmas

For black and for white

For yellow and red ones

Let's stop all the fight 

War is over over

If you want it

War is over

Now...."

Well, if that doesn't give you pause, I don't know what will! 

Because I stay so busy painting and creating, I really miss "giving back," something instilled into my psyche gently and effectively by my parents.  This little narcissistic world I spin in leaves precious little anything for others.  That's why I treat the family next door to dog sitting when the weather is cold. . .that's why I will occasionally gift a painting to someone.  This is my attempt to find a balance, some soul satisfying gesture to say I'm thankful to be of service, thankful to be able to give SOMETHING, thankful for you.  

In all modesty, the gift I'm richly given is the honor of painting memorable treasures for families.  The journey at the easel touches my deepest, most secret parts of my heart, tuning the emotional chord that strums throughout my life. 

Wishing all a spirit of giving, a spirit of gratitude and a loving heart this December.