Home Is Where The Heart Is
Hey friends,
Just a couple of days ago our youngest son left home to live in
Michigan for two years. As it happens, 28 years before that (to the
day) our first child was born. So, my wife and I have spend exactly 28
years raising our family and now we suddenly find ourselves "empty
nesters". The house is more quiet (I'm kind of sad about that) though I
expect it will tend to be cleaner with the kids gone... less popcorn
between couch cushions, random socks in odd places, books and musical
instruments on the dining table. All that stuff that was a hassle not
long ago, now brings a smile. Kids bring life to the home and I am
going to miss them and the times when they wanted to talk at 10:30pm-
just when I wanted to go to sleep.
They say "home is where the heart is". I think that's so true. With the
recent changes in my life I'm especially aware of how precious home and
family are. I want to celebrate "home" in this newsletter and share
some images that I hope will resonate with you.
(I love to include symbol and metaphor in my art. Below each piece is a
short explanation of the message contained in the painting.)
_____
The Upward Road
The Upward Road
12x12 Oil on Panel
Included in the American Impressionist Society show-
October 2020
"The Upward Road" is a painting about home, with the "home fires
burning" and about journeying away from home always to return. The road
that leads up the hill is a metaphor for adventure and struggle as it
leads steeply up the mountain and off to unseen places.
_____
Fleeting Shadows
Fleeting Shadows
10x16 Oil on Panel
This sounds rather esoteric but "Fleeting Shadows" is about how
transitory life is. The shadow on the side of that house will only be
that shape and size for a few moments, then it will change. It is
beautiful and wonderful just as it is. I think this is a powerful idea
that might help us to be more present in the moment an enjoy its unique
beauty.
_____
A Piece of Paradise
A Piece of Paradise
8x8 Oil on Panel
"A Piece of Paradise" is a plein air painting- done on location in my
rural town of Blackfoot, ID. I chose to paint this image because it
spoke to me of a country home where hard work is done every day and
where kids run and play in the fields.
_____
Looking ahead-
So, I'm a little sad as this chapter in life closes but excited for
what comes next. I really am glad the kids are growing up and moving on
to the next stage of life. It would be sad for them not to take on new
challenges and struggles that will push them beyond their current
comfort zone. I believe they will go out into the world and do good
things... maybe something big, but more importantly I hope they will do
small things with great love, like being good neighbors and teaching
their own kids to do the same.
warm regards,
J Ken Spencer
ps- I invite you to share your thoughts with me. What do you remember
about home and growing up? What made your house a "home"?
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