11x14x1.5” original, acrylic painting on canvas

I’ve been listening to the audiobook, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer while I paint, and contemplating distractions, shortening attention spans versus the moments in my days that are rich and somewhat serene. And consideration of the most simple elements are where I find a place where both my mind and soul take a breath. What I mean, is that when I pause to look at my daughter’s sweet little three year-old hand as I hold it, with us cuddled on the couch, and silently thank God for making her and those perfect fingers, that is where I find joy. Or when I look at a lemon and think, it’s just a simple piece of fruit, but look at all of the shades of yellow on this round, little citrus creation, that’s where we recognize the miracle that is life. I come back to painting still life pieces, between commissions and even landscapes (both of which I love to paint, as well) because they are a reset for me, a chance to slow down and notice small details and give thanks that flowers do only bloom for a short season, but aren’t they so beautiful when they do?

May So Simple remind you of a soulful pause - a time to remember that this good life has riches in the shades of yellow found in a simple lemon and the elegant bend of a tulip’s leaf.