Irreparable Past, Irresistible Future

Some favorites from 2013, ©Cindy Greene

Of course, today is filled with year-end thoughts, resolutions, goals ignored or exceeded, possible regrets, enormous thanksgiving. I've had the gift of time this week with two of our daughters who live in other cities — and memories of the time spent last week with all our children. I'm full, tired, grateful, humble, probably irritable. I want to acknowledge the passage of 2013 in some way.

A year ago, I set a few art goals for 2013. They included starting a painting blog, taking a workshop, getting comfortable with my plein air excursions, entering a show or two, and joining a local art organization. I'm amazed that I have completely exceeded these intentions; I can't remember ever doing that before. This is something I love doing, and that God-given drive combined with the encouragement of my husband, children, friends and even strangers, has pushed me along. 

Obviously, there's a painting blog — you are reading it. I took a great workshop last February with Carol Marine, and met some other artists I enjoy following. I had a great time regularly painting plein air with a couple of friends during the summer, and found a comfort level (the mastery will come in twenty years or so I guess). I joined a local art group — it may not be where I stay, but it was a start. I entered four shows near the end of the year; all were good experiences.

For someone who is by nature quite shy, this has been a total "out of the comfort zone" experience. I love painting, and I am so thankful that so many of you enjoy what I paint. I'm thankful for all of you, and wish you a most happy and blessed 2014.

"Leave the Irreparable Past in His hands,
and step out into the Irresistible Future with Him."

— Oswald Chambers