A Flower Strewn Path

FlowersfromRandy

 

I’m home! I have a long way to go recuperating from surgery, but I’m home and it is lovely to be here with my family and the comforts of home. There is a lot I could say about the last couple of months. But it is still forming in my mind and heart and feels too raw and dear to put out there in a blog. I have no idea whether I will ever write here about this experience, this lenten journey I’ve been on. In so many amazing ways, I was indeed led to a quiet place. Not one I would have chosen myself. And I do feel I am still on this path.

The beautiful thing about this path is that it has been strewn with flowers! And cards! The above watercolor I made prior to landing in the hospital. My husband, Randy, brought home a bunch of gorgeous flowers for me. I can remember during those hideous days of nearly 24/7 living in a bathroom, that the few moments I had to draw or paint were such a welcome diversion. Once in the hospital, where I stayed for three weeks, the flowers were lavishly sent…tulips, azaleas, dahlias, carnations, roses, mixed bouquets, etc. And the cards…wow, the cards! They are still coming! I love looking at and reading each one. The thoughts and sentiments behind each bouquet and each card overwhelm me, in a good way. The outpouring of concern and care has been staggering. Randy and I are so very grateful.

I only wish that I could’ve made a little painting of each and every bouquet. I do have some pen sketches in my writing journal that I made in the early days at the hospital when they were trying to arrest the Ulcerative Colitis by different medications, none of which my body seemed to respond to. The flowers kept coming in even after surgery and the second surgery. The beautiful azalea is now planted in our front yard, and I look forward to it blooming every year.

One of the things I long to hang onto from all of this, is a slower pace in life. To that end, I will not be blogging as often as I used to. I’m considering combining my three blogs into one, and continuing Letters to An Artist on an “as I can” basis. When you’re given a new lease on life, it is only natural to rethink how you’ve been living and make a few changes. I hope, dear reader, that you will continue to check in with me here on Drawn2Life. There is so much Beauty to share with you. And as always, I hope you’ll join me in looking for and creating a bit of beauty in your own life.

A grand THANK YOU to all of you who have sent healing thoughts, prayed for me, wished me well over the last month. I am truly grateful for each of you.

18 thoughts on “A Flower Strewn Path

  1. Jane Wilson says:

    Hi, Jen, it’s so nice to hear from you again. I really enjoy your blogs, and perhaps because they were so rich in color and thought, their absence was notable. Do as little as you want and heal. Even a few words or small picture from you is a gift.

  2. Teresa says:

    So, so happy to see your work, your words and your art again! Miss you so much. Keep caring for yourself and take your time to heal, recover and discover your new path. Heaping up all the love and support I can muster!

  3. Patsy says:

    Welcome home, Jennifer. and prayers for your continued recovery. Finding a new path will take time, but the rewards will come on the journey.

  4. Elsie Hickey Wilson says:

    Wonderful news to know you are finally home and on the road to recovery! You have been in my heart, thoughts and prayers! I’ll continue to hold you to the light of The Father. Hugs!
    Elsie

  5. Bronwyn Klaphaak says:

    Jennifer,
    Your dad posted that you are home. Such wonderful news!! I have been thinking about you and wishing you healing and strength these past weeks as you travel this new course in life. Hang in there! Bronwyn

  6. Deborah says:

    I am so thankful to hear that you are home!! So glad you are recuperating and praying for Gods purpose in this to be fulfilled as He brings you grace and healing. We may be just online art buddies but you feel like family. Sending you much love and prayers, Deboraj

  7. Timaree freebirdsings says:

    Welcome home and to a slower paced life. Combining your blogs sounds like a great simplification. Bet your family is happy you are home. That was a mighty long time to be in the hospital! Flowers huh? Well you are home now at a flowery time of year too. Hope you can enjoy it to the max!

  8. Sandra Torguson says:

    Golly, I just thought that your blog was quiet because you were following your goal of not posting during Lent. My goodness what a trial. One blog instead of three sounds like a good step to calming your life. PLEASE, take care.

  9. Serena says:

    So happy to hear you are home, Jennifer!! I wish you all the best as you continue with your recovery. Sometimes, illness is our body’s way of telling us to slow down. It’s probably a good idea to meld all three blogs together as it will take some pressure of you.

    All the best ~ xo

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