The year was 1813. I vividly remember the recruiting sergeant regaling us with soldier stories extolling the virtues of soldiering. The descriptions of enchanted lands and the thrill of military victories were powerful indeed. All of these stories proved to be true, although most of these were only experienced in fleeting moments. The long fatiguing…
“Knee High to the Grasshoppers” – A Child’s View
Have you ever wondered what a young child sees as they wander through a garden? As we know their eyes and ears are closer to the ground, perhaps they sense things we old folks can’t. I believe the natural world awakens their powers of perception and is an integral component in their development. When I was “Knee High to the…
“The Looking Glass” – Self Portrait
No one at the sale wanted the old mirror. Some said it wouldn’t go with their modern decor, yet for me it was perfect — I had an idea . . . . Every time I gazed into the mirror’s surface, my thoughts would drift to an earlier time — I sorta became mesmerized. I…
“Jonathan Parker” – A Tribute
During the 8 1/2 years I worked at Valley Forge National Historical Park, I was occasionally asked if any of my ancestry served in the Continental Army. My answer was always the same – I don’t know and I’ve never looked into the matter. After I left the Park Service, a relative of mine did…
“Fourth of July”
The 4th of July holds a special place in the hearts and minds of many Americans. In 1776, Congress declared Independence, yet it was the soldiers that secured this Independence. Their 8 1/2 year struggle combined with unwavering devotion propelled them to achieve their goal. On this date, we come together and celebrate —…
“Liberty’s Call”
A wild eagle stirs my soul. It’s call always reminds me to never forget those that passed this way before us. Their sacrifices and perseverance paved the way for the freedoms we cherish today. Our eagle has landed and perched itself on a carved elm yoke. This solid beam supports a famous cracked bell…
“Silent Night at Em’s Cabin”
Emilie purchased this historic cabin and moved it to her backyard. Her love and care have preserved its character and charm. A few years back, my husband and I asked if we could take a few photos . . . . Permission was granted. Many miles separate us from Emilie, yet we’ve become steadfast…
“Mending Fences” – Portrait of a Soldier
My great uncle was a soldier in the First World War. As a youngster, I remember visiting with him and his family. The farm where he lived was close to my grandparents’ farm. Serving in the Army Corps of Engineers, he saw most of his service in France. A native Lancaster County Pennsylvanian, his youthful…
“What’s for Supper?”
This hand-me down creel accompanied my Dad on numerous fishing adventures for over 40 years. No doubt the decades of fishy aroma attracted the investigated skills of this four legged bruin. Blending several photographs, I was able to paint this fanciful scene. I’ve always been interested in challenging myself in my creative pursuits. This venture…
“One More Chance” — Wolf Sanctuary
I started this painting over 20 years ago. I could not come to peace with it. I tucked it away for about 10 years. Upon rediscovering it, I decided to give it one more chance. I had to paint over some of the original scene, changed the pose of the main wolf and added a companion…
