My dear Blog-followers,
It is with deep sorrow that I tell you that the dearest man in my life who regularly occupied the chair so lovingly painted in this work has departed for a higher plane. His life on earth came to an end November 19, 2009. He was 73 years and 7months of age. I can only now write about him or his passing. The words "died", "death", and other reality-based words still won't come easily. I am changing the name of the painting from "Back in a Minute" to "The Empty Chair".

If I painted my heart, however, I would not entitle the work "The Empty Heart." Howard filled my heart during his life and continues to occupy it now. During his life he was the very best admirer of my artistic endeavors. He shared my interest in art fully. In fact, our meeting in 1961 was in a figure-drawing class at Abilene Christian University where he was the model. The rest as they say is history. He was not a visual artist himself, but he was an artist at living. He was an athletic, enthusiastic, cheerful, and loving person. (He was also very good at schlepping my artwork and art gear wherever I needed it.) He was spiritual and giving and encouraged my faith daily. I thank God for him.

Getting back into the groove of art production has been a gradual, ongoing process; and I suspect that it will take many more months to heal. I never want to lose him, but I do want to heal from the pain of the loss. Those of you who are praying people, help me here.

God bless you all,
Margaret