silence

I went on a silent prayer retreat this past weekend. Prayer and solitude being appropriate during this long cold winter. The retreat center was remote, surrounded by huge oak trees clothed in winter white, ornamented by ice. Inside was cozy if not overheated,
 I sat by a window and found myself surprised by the time I was able to pray in a place with no distractions.
Later, I drew in my sketchbook this face of Christ  from a small bronze crucifix that was hanging on the wall of my monastery room.

first Sunday in February

And...it is cold and snowy. Nothing new to view out my window today, but this naked oak branch wearing a scarf of snowy lace.

The good old way

humble onion

mighty eggplant

From my little daily sketchbook.

the ups and downs

dowager

downton

We are watching Downton Abbey on our TV. So fun to be drawn out of our problems into the make-believe world. My husband remarks "No way I can believe that so many bad things can happen to one household at the same time." But he is watching avidly with me. I kept my sketchbook in my lap and worked rapidly to catch a likeness as I watched. The costumes are fun too.

Epiphany Sunday

The last Sunday of the Christmas season.

comforting

If we have to endure winter, And If it must be bitter cold and gray, well then, it is at least a solace to be able to watch all the lovely snow comforting the landscape.