Tidings of Gratitude . . .

there's a wind a blowin' ~

And, that's where it began. As I watch the news reports on the weather we are being blessed with across the nation and Thanksgiving nearly here; my mind wanders to the significance of this day of gratitude. Everyone is focused on that one very important pilgrimage to return home to reconnect with friends and family. I love framing everyone's personal memoirs; and those leave me with sweet memories . . .

As I stroll through the gallery today, it came upon me (keep in mind that the wind is howling outside and the windows are clattering a bit) how fortunate I am to have met Pat and what artwork does for the human soul. So here is a little tribute to what has been spoken to me today as I turn on the lights and open the doors to the gallery . . .

Gratitude for What I See

The wind is whipping through our town;

oh my, I hope the power lines don't go down . . .

Fire and Ice sent a fiery chill;

today I miss the call of the whippoorwill . . .

"Fire and Ice"

I'm the lucky one, I know it's true;

for I can travel far, and stay here, too . . .

I just walked by St. Louis and thought of what

and how that silvery gateway has done so much . . .

"St. Louis"

Next, I visit a snowy bank,

a classic goose for which I thank . . .

Pat's artistic endeavors to take me out,

of my world with Thoughts of South . . .

"Thoughts of South"

The wind has briefly stopped;

so now I gaze upon my clock . . .

Silence catches my wandering eye;

for the beauty of winter makes me sigh . . .

"Silence"

My mind wanders to those in love;

whom God smiles upon from above . . .

Yours Forever, two sweethearts flourish,

hearts of passion they shall nourish. . .

"Yours Forever"

Morning Fishermen take me to summer,

where angler's hearts follow that drummer . . .

Fishing is a favorite pastime;

of those dear boys and sweet grandson of mine . . .

"Morning Fishermen"

Appalachian Winter is such a homey scene,

reminds me of Rachel, my daughter-in-law queen . . .

A warm hearth is her heart;

home décor is her art . . .

"Appalachian Winter"

Mountains in Spring

reminds me of Stephen and Katrine;

Their long drives through the Napa Valley,

the heart of California wine country . . .

"Mountains in Spring"

Bright oranges and golds of an October Bouquet,

these petals of flowers will ne'er fade 'way . . .

They remind me of my mom's bright smile;

so I gaze upon them for a while . . .

"October Bouquet"

The Promise of Spring features a red bird,

and blossoms of dogwood that once occurred . . .

And we know, as seasons pass;

return they will once again, through our looking glass . . .

"Promise of Spring"

Snow Day brings a sweet memory,

of when Pat painted the gallery . . .

Snowy drifts piled oh so high,

when that extended family visits, I hate to say, "Goodbye" . . .

"Snow Day"

As I walk near the stairs;

Baskets Galore is hanging there . . .

A bounty of love and abundance,

seems a perfect Thanksgiving happenstance . . .

"Baskets Galore"

Twilight on the Riverbank,

brings me full circle on this day I thank . . .

Pat and Paul, and each and every one of you;

for you have given memories I cherish through and through. . .

"Twilight on the Riverbank"