On Golden Pond - Thank you, Fran!

On Golden Pond - Thank you, Fran!, a photo by linfrye on Flickr.

9" x 12"
Arches 140#CP

A lake is the landscape's most beautiful and expressive feature.
It is Earth's eye; looking into which the beholder measures
the depth of his own nature.
from the chapter "The Ponds" in Walden

The true peace of God begins at any spot a thousand miles from the nearest land. ~Joseph Conrad

Water, the essence of life and an essential part of the life force, seems to be beckon me these days. I'm drawn to the water as a thirsty woman, seeking the solace and tranquility it provides. This painting, inspired by my dear friend, Fran and her awesome images of her homeland, drew my attention and admiration. Painting it, brought a huge measure of solace.

Thank you so much, Fran! Please stop by and visit Fran's flickrstream for more of Nature's finest beauty (www.flickr.com/photos/fahansen/6474424161/in/photostream/).

Mom's days are up and down - filling us with sad worry one moment, and huge joy and hope the next. I've never been fond of roller coasters, and so this emotional one is pretty taxing. She seems to be making a bit of progress in rehab, has a fine room-mate and she is enjoying the sunny and warm room she's in. The nurses have been incredibly kind and helpful, and she's finally been able to use the wheelchair successfully without, like when one first learns to paddle a boat, going in circles! LOL I'm praying her progress continues and her bouts of confusion lessen.

Today we celebrate my grandson's seventh birthday. Wherever did the time go? I can still remember my son walking out of the delivery room to tell us the news of Nick's birth - the absolute JOY in his face, the tears of elation! This young man, so much like his father, is the only male in a family of female grandchildren - so needless to say, he is teased, but spoiled magnificently! He's a 'male's male' following his father and Pawpaw Charlie around like a mimic - with a sweetness that is abiding. He, like his father, loves the water, and boating and fishing, but today, he'll rollerskate with friends and family as he glides into another year.

In our part of North Carolina, ponds are fairly common. Most farms have at least one pond for livestock especially, for fishing, for storm water control. I like to think that at least some of these ponds, are there too for the inspiration and tranquility they bring. For when the sun sets and turns that water to gold, can anyone not be moved?