Year: 2026
Sunset Over the Gulf of Mexico (New Painting in Oil)
While praying about Venezuela, I remembered this unusual sunset looking south over the gulf of Mexico from Corpus Christi after our nephew’s wedding.
The One Recurring Response (Poem by Susan McBride Els)
All prayers– even the wild and savage ones– point to the one recurring response: Yes, its always love.
Janet Fish (Featured Artist)
I have long adored the artwork of Janet Fish. I was saddened to hear of her passing last December, but proud of what she accomplished, by being true to what she was interested in and making a name for herself, especially when the way there was so steep for women. She was tenacious in following her vision, and consistent in working toward it.
Don’t Ruminate, Activate (James Clear Quote)
I find it is difficult to think my way into a better mood. When I sit and stew, the problem usually grows larger in my mind.
Time of the Child (Book Review)
It is a story about an unexpected baby arriving at Christmas time, and what a miracle that can be. It centers around the town doctor as the main character, as well as his unmarried daughter.
Be the Light in the Darkness (New Painting in Pastel)
I thought of expanding opportunities like the northern lights but more exaggerated and with complex light coming out of darkness. There are lots of reasons to believe in darkness and limitation these days, but light and effulgence always win out.
Lean on the Infinite (New Poem by Polly Castor)
Let all that and infinitely more surge through you. Let that govern your being. Let that sustain you through it all. Let that determine your destiny.
Grassroots Uprising (New Oil Painting)
I painted this oil painting in my studio, even though I usually try to only paint oils outdoors. I’m loving some new oil painting stuff I bought with my Christmas money, and felt the urge, so I ventilated well and went for it anyway.
Gochujang Tomato Soup (Recipe)
This is a deliciously fresh take on tomato soup! Plus it is easy to make and made with canned (or jarred) tomatoes!
Joshua Miles (Featured Artist)
I love the reduction prints of Joshua Miles, which are astonishing in their detail and complexity.
Interconnectedness (quote by Thich Nhat Hanh)
As thin as this sheet of paper is, it contains everything in the universe. So the one contains the all.
White-Edged Ripped Elements in Collage (Sketchbook Ideas #21)
Give this a try; it is a great way to warm up our creative juices for a new year.
Brownie Edge Chocolate Cookies (Recipe)
Who doesn’t love the edge of the brownie best? And this is the easiest one bowl and drop cookie recipe imaginable.
Joy is a Stubborn Courage (Maria Popova Quote)
In this world heavy with robust reasons for despair, joy is a stubborn courage we must not surrender, a fulcrum of personal power we must not yield to cynicism, blame, or any other costume of helplessness.