Thirty-Two
I love flowers. That is no secret. Whether it’s a magnolia tree, my azalea bushes, or planters on my patio, they are definitely my love language. One of my favorite flowers are camellias.
Camellias tend to pop up in February/March here in North Carolina. They are one of my favorites mostly because they signify that spring is coming…the promise of warmer weather, baseball season, and pollen!
My dad and I planted a camellia in front of my house that I eagerly anticipate every year. This year was no different except one thing... Mid-February I couldn’t find any buds on my plant. Lots of signs of new growth, but no buds. And let me tell you I was disappointed.
Last night, I was out weeding around my shrubs when low and behold… I spotted a bloom! On the back side of the shrub hidden amongst some leaves was the prettiest pink flower I had ever seen. It was just waiting for me to find it! After thinking I had over-fertilized it back in the fall, my shrub (much like life) was just asking me to be patient and to have a little faith while trusting the process.
That flower is much like painting. Working in oils along with my style of painting requires me to take my time and to put forth diligence when producing a painting. There are so many times when I get excited about a piece and want to finish it yesterday, when in theory I really can’t. Through oil painting, I’ve had to learn to slow down and enjoy the process because it makes the end result so much sweeter.
“Closing Time” up for auction at the State College Chapter Oyster Roast
Looking back into my last few weeks of 31, how true that is of life too. In all honesty, I thought I’d maybe be married with kids by now. Instead, I just have Rosie…which is basically like having a child itself - hah.
31 has been a good but hard year. Through the ups and downs, I have consistently seen the Lord reminding me to anticipate what’s next all the while being present in the now. When I feel like I’m behind in life, He opens my eyes to show I’m right where I need to be through the beauty of a simple bloom. He is never late and is trying to instill in me the same patience/trust I must practice when painting.
The last few months of 31 have entailed starting a new job, traveling to Charleston with my best friend, and preparing paintings for upcoming DU Banquets. Looking back, I’m thankful for such a wild year and thank you all for following me along as I stumble into year 32!
My best friend, Abigail, and I enjoying our time at SEWE
