Day 359 - Ski

I am so tired from teaching skiing all day that I am grateful I was able to finish this painting tonight. 6 drawings/paintings to go and Voila! Alles ist getan!

Day 358 - Help

From griefshare.com

I like this post from griefshare.com as it seems to sum up the year I've explored through this journey. My constant prayer during the year was "Oh God, help me."

Here's the post:

"A woman said, 'Where was God when my son was killed during the war?' And a wise, spiritually mature friend said, 'He was where he was when His own Son died on the cross for our sins.' God knows all about your problems. He wants to help you, but in your anger and resentment, and oftentimes hatred, He cannot help you. It is only when you say, 'Oh God, help me,' in a spirit of humility, that He envelops you with His love, forgiveness, and grace."

God knows your deepest fears, hurts, and needs.

"For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life" (John 3:16).

Day 357 - Closing

My year of working through the grief over the loss of my husband is almost at a close. I am reflecting much these last days of 2010. The year has ended, for me, on a very high note. My son is happy and doing great things, I received tenure at my job, I have good friends and family by my side, I published a book and a calendar, and I am off to Germany this summer. Wie ist das! As I finish these last paintings, I am already looking forward to the next project, especially now that I will be visiting Auschwitz this summer. I hope to include my trip in my visual project. Much to thing about and plan. 2011 will be an exciting year, no matter what comes my way.

Day 356 - Eve

It's Christmas Eve and I still have so many paintings to finish! At least I'm done with the sled! Merry Christmas!

Day 355 - Struggle

I am trying to finish my blog, Christmas shopping, wrapping, and all the hustle that goes with the holiday season...on top of the flu. I think it's time to maybe just BE.

Day 354 - Journal

Keep an Art Journal

How do you start an art journal? I have several for different uses. I have one for watercolor, one for drawing and one for quick sketching and notes. I record quotes and sketch moments in time. An art journal is a great tool to motivate you to do larger projects because they are simple and not concerned with detail. I even use my journals to set artistic goals.

An art journal allows you to look, see and be inspired. It's about the experience, not the final product.

Day 353 - Tonight

Tonight I am playing catchup! End of semester was quite a bit of work, but today is the first day of winter break and I am relieved but also sick with the flu! I didn't create a painting or drawing today, but a flash movie for my sister who's son was stuck in London due to weather conditions and didn't know if he'd make it home for Christmas. He arrived by a miracle yesterday so this is for him (and my sister's relief!):

janetoneil.com/mike/mike.swf

It has music and takes a bit of time to load.