Tuesday, June 16, 2009

This is a cropped area of one of my paintings that my Father gave me. It was created by his mother, Tella Kitchen. Her story telling was always one of her assets. Being able to tell stories with images was even better. What a wonderful way to communicate your life stories to others through paintings. I find myself always thinking of my life and the images associated with it. I tell Mary Anne( my lovely wife) that I, too, am going to paint many of the events of my life growing up in Lancaster, Ohio. Did you ever stop to think about all of the changes that you have seen in your lifetime? Do you think about those friends and family members who have shared these same changes? Maybe you could create a keepsake for someone you love to cherish. It doesn't have to be painting. It might be a scrapbook with all of your family identified. I created a calendar book with all the important days and people in our life for my dear sister. It also gave me the opportunity to continue that sibling rivalry. It might be a written story about your life. I wrote books to my children as they grew. They received them at a wedding rehearsal dinner. I gave my son a blank book hoping that he will take the time to write "love" notes to his children. My wife and I created books for her brothers and sister using Snapfish. It made a one of a kind Christmas present. Maybe you can pass on a keepsake to someone while your both here to enjoy the exchange. I know that we are all busy but....these gifts are gifts that only you can give someone. It doesn't have to be big or elaborate, it has to be personal. Have a great day.