Before and After

I've been absent for a number of months. 2011 was the year of tremendous ups and downs, most marked by, first of all, the final illness and death of my beloved Mother, which spanned about 4 months. I continued to work until I had to leave for the final visit, when she died; but haven't touched a brush or written since. It has felt right to sit in silence for awhile. But now, it seems, I may be ready to emerge once again. Now, I believe the painting will help the healing. And so we begin again - a different person than the one who sat at my Mom's bed.