Here I am in my studio, the sun streaming through the skylight to illuminate my painting. As you can see from the photo below, I also am a proud new grandmother, and loving every minute of it. My husband and I love having our family nearby. We see them on a regular basis and cherish the time we have with them.

This year, the Nebraska winter has been mild and brings reminders of spring, so I have returned to my work on some floral paintings that have been only "partially completed." One of those paintings, titled "October Geraniums," reminds me of the last time I saw my father. It was a beautiful October morning, and I had gone into our woods to take some pictures. As I returned, I saw my father in his yard tending his geraniums. I took pictures of him and his flowers that day. A few days later, he passed away unexpectedly.

There is a story behind each of my paintings. My hope is that you will join me in reflecting on the simple things that weave beauty and meaning through our lives.

Pam