Hey there Sunshine!
Princess Catherine's recent health news evoked a flood of memories for me. At the age of 26, single, and launching my career, I received an ovarian cancer diagnosis. It came as a total shock and meant a second surgery where doctors took 32 biopsies, and resulted in a two week hospital stay to recover. This happened at the same time Gilda Radner of SNL fame was battling ovarian cancer. As you can imagine, I felt a special affinity with her.
I now feel some kinship with the Princess. I'm not speculating on what type of cancer she has, but I know what it feels like to receive a cancer diagnosis, recover emotionally and physically, and move beyond. I'm very fortunate that I've been able to move beyond for almost 40 years now.
While I wouldn't wish cancer on anyone, I am now very thankful for the many life lessons it gave me including cherish loved ones and focus on what's truly important. But the best lesson of all? Each day is a gift.
Somehow, we can lose sight of that gift. I know I still do on occasion. That's when I remind myself to step away from responsibilities or media for a bit. Take time to relish the vastness of the universe, the magic of a solar eclipse, the promise of a new sunrise, the refreshment of a rainy day. Walks on the beach. Kitty cats and puppy dogs. Delicious food. Chocolate. Time with those we cherish. Dancing. The list is endless, and I always feel better when I take the time to observe and appreciate. I hope you have found ways to take time for yourself to relish the gift of each day.
And about the media, despite what much of the beauty industry implies, aging is a gift. Perhaps I can say this because I am fortunate to still have my health. But as I near eligibility to collect social security, I still look forward to another year and another day. It is a blessing that too many never get to experience. It is this gift of "every day" that I try to capture in my paintings. My attempts to capture the sparkle of sunlight is symbolic of life's incredible gifts.
Have a bright and beautiful day, Subscriber!
Upcoming Exhibitions
Small Treasures at Cary Gallery of Artists
Cary, NC
March 29 - April 20
Reception March 29 from 6 - 8pm
Fine Art League of Cary Exhibition at Golden Belt Arts
Durham, NC
March 30 - April 28
Reception April 19 from 6 - 9pm
Details about all of my events can be found here.
Upcoming Workshops
Open Studio for Oil Painters at Cary Arts Center
Cary NC
April 13, 10 - 1pm
May 7, 6 - 9pm
Pet Portraits with Personality at Cary Arts Center
Cary, NC
Tuesdays, July 9 - 30, 7 - 9pm
The Fundamentals of Painting
The Centerpiece
Raleigh, NC
July 25 - 26, 11 - 4pm
Additional details about my workshops are available here.
