IF Snow

Fun in the Snow
4x6 Water Soluble Pencil on 140# Strathmore Paper
©2012 BEDeuel

With less than 2 weeks until the Christmas holiday, it’s beginning to look like it may be another Green Christmas.

Don’t get me wrong: I’m not a huge fan of lots of snow. Recently, someone made the observation that the problem with snow is that it slows everything down. Which in our everyday lives, that makes things much more difficult.

But, for a moment, let’s take that idea, and a deep breath, and imagine our lives being leisurely enough to enjoy going slower. Let’s think of all the good things we could relish on a lovely, snowy day.

An easy walk, feeling the cool touch of the flakes landing on your face. The clean, white coating of purity on the world before you. Coming into a warm and cozy home with nothing more than relaxation on your agenda. Hot chocolate, of course. Lots of it. The feeling that there is nothing that needs to be done.

One of the most wonderful feelings in the world.

So, in spite of the lack of snow, it might be time to pretend: pretend that it’s okay to slow down and do nothing but stroll through a day.

I’m sure you’ve earned it!

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There is no possible way to offer anything to those this past week, in Oregon and Connecticut, who have lost loved ones. Just that you are all in our hearts and we cannot help but to cry with you.

 

IF Swamp

Sun and Swamp
Water Soluble Pencil on 4x6 130# Paper
©2012 BEDeuel/Bronson Hill Arts

We've been so fortunate to taste some early summer-like weather the last week or two. It's been quite remarkable in the effect it's had on people in general. The warmth and the sun have been reflected in everyone's hearts and faces.

A wonderful end to a mild and quick winter. Or a great start to, hopefully, an enjoyable summer!

What has been even more amazing is that hubby and I have actually taken the time for a couple of leisurely, photo-laden strolls. One of the walks was along a trail that was dotted with creeks, a train trestle, both straggly and uniform rows of trees, and, yes, swamps.

The word "swamp" can conjure an ugly image of mud and algae, bugs, and stench.

But, personally, I've often found that swamps are fascinatingly lovely. The sight of a cluster of trees immersed in water, dead or dying, yet majestic and dignified, can be inspiring. Artistically, the view can offer so many textures and depths in one sweep.

It all comes back to the idea that beauty comes in all sizes, colors and forms. If you get the chance, stop and take a long, thorough look at a swamp. Like so many other things in life, you might be surprised at the treasures it might hold.