Notes on Autumn and Feeling Joy

Fall is gorgeous and my favourite time of year, particularly September. There is still greenery around, but the foliage turns golden, then orange, then rust. There are warm days, cool nights, stunning sunsets. The geese gather and fly overhead; the leaves rustle in the wind. There is gratitude for the season past and a slow resignation to the upcoming winter. It becomes cool enough to light the fire in our stone fireplace. Pumpkin, squash, corn, and the end of the gardening season provide much to warm your heart and your belly. 

Lately, I was commissioned to paint an autumn landscape of the winding local river with the backdrop of blue skies and colourful shoreline. I could feel the sun on my face while I painted, feel the breeze gently blowing the water. When you can immerse yourself in your painting, pretend you are in the boat drifting down the river, the painting becomes richer, truer, more real. Although it was meant as a gift for someone else, the act of painting it became a gift to me. That is the true joy of commissioned work!