The end of a year is another opportunity for pause and reflection.  I get a little nostalgic about these things... this has not been the easiest of years...but this applies to so many of us it's almost normal now?  Some of the challenging things have been some amazing artists have died leaving behind incredible paintings and memories and stories... some left untold, Margaret Olley, David Boyd, Michael Challen spring to mind ... 
Personal struggles with depression and other depleting conditions have played a part... 
Some of the good stuff needs remembering too : 
A visit to Melbourne, staying with an old school friend and her family... exhibiting some paintings at the Canterbury Art show.  Discovering the 'perfect blend' talks at Caloudra Regional Gallery... hearing from various artists and seeing their amazing works on display... and attending a mixed media workshop there.  Later in the year attending a couple of arty workshops with Kym Barrett and Lynne Marshall.  Hearing from a lady who lives in Singapore that a painting I donated a couple of years earlier has touched her heart.  
These are the part pertaining to my art life... there will be some things I've missed, but anyhow.... farewell 2011 ... I appreciate the lessons, I hope I don't have to relearn some of them!
Of course I hold hopes for a great 2012 and I wish you, dear reader a very warm and Happy New Year too.  
Each morning we have a fresh start.... I intend to enjoy my life as much as I possibly can .... and make Self Love a priority this year.
Much love,
Denise xo

A couple of days ago I had the absolute pleasure of hearing how a little girl of just 9 years old loves my paintings, because they make her feel happy.  Emalisse has some very serious health challenges in her life and she and her Mum have to be ever so courageous to get through all that goes with that.  I loved her painting so much I've put it on my kindness page for keeps... but I wanted to make a little blog post in her honour as well.her Aunt said to me "Not bad for a little autistic girl with good vision in only one eye. Thank you for filling her with joy through your beautiful work Denise"

how precious.

with love

Denise.