2011 in Art Photos

January: I embarked on a letter project, writing one letter a day to a young friend needing encouragement. It pushed me to notice things I often overlook, simply by sharing my life with her.

February: We were slammed with a snowstorm. We had twelve people snowed in with us. Loads of visiting and games ensued (fortunately our electricity stayed on). I also got lots of painting done.

March: I painted with a vengeance and struggled to hope for my sweet friend's fight against cancer.

April: I received news that my sweet friend's cancer had spread too far. My days were full of tears, struggle, plans and schedules to keep someone by her side. We shared intimate moments together.

May: I sat with my sweet friend as she began to fade. My kids understood their summer would start slow.

June: I said a final farewell. After the funeral, we traveled to the ocean and got much needed rest and comfort. I took a break from blogging.

July: At the end of the month, I inched my way back into blogland. Our outdoor activities were limited due to record-breaking heat so we watched quite a few dollar-theater movies.

August: A beautiful downpour of rain came to break the heat. My daughters and I danced in the delicious coolness.

September: I opened an Etsy shop and ecstatically sold my first prints.

October: We browsed the fair and visited the pumpkin patch; then indulged in pumpkin goodness.

November: I felt thankful for all the people who've impacted me, both past and present. I loved meeting my dear blogging friend, JeMa and getting one-on-one birthday time with my sister.

December: My soul filled with family time, silly moments and an anniversary celebration.

Although 2011 was a tough year, it had beautiful moments. Now my heart is open and reaching for all the good 2012 will bring. I got this idea of a year-in-photos from A Beautiful Mess. I added my own twist to it by making it a year in art. I'd love to see your year in photos, if you'd like to join in!

Happy New Year!