The Victory Tree

What and where is The Victory Tree? I’m so glad you ask. Stay tuned as I share the sweet story about this week’s painting. But first, whether you are new here or not, know that this is a colorful painting place. Meaning? That means that each week I share a colorful painting for you to see and enjoy. My hope is that these colorful, affordable paintings will delight your eyes and – hopefully – lift your spirit or mood! OK here’s the back story or context.

News Weary

Not sure if you feel this way, but lately, I have been feeling news weary. It’s a feeling I get which involves a simple step: turn off the news. But sometimes, even when I do that, the headlines and shouting and weather emergencies still find a way into my head space.

So I did something else simple. I walked around our yard. And, given the rain of the last week or so, I first noticed my feet going “squoosh, squoosh, squoosh” through the grass. Then I looked at my yard. It definitely needs work but there’s a dogwood tree in our front yard that looks absolutely divine right now. And that’s what I painted this week. Here’s the setup and the luscious, post painting palette.

Why Name It Victory

As I looked at the dogwood tree in our front yard, I saw so many branches that extend out and form the letter “V.” That’s what tree branches do, right? It made me think of all the headlines out there and all the madness and how wonderful it would be if a nice person, a super smart and accomplished person but also a dad, won this year.

OK let me cut to the chase here. Fact is, a current elected official who is running for higher office used to live in our house. And, he occasionally walks in our neighborhood because he lives nearby. One time he was walking by and I was out on the front porch. He started to chat and then said “Do you mind if I take a photo of the dogwood tree in your yard?” I said, “Of course not.” He commented that he and his wife planted that tree when one of their kids was born and he likes to check on it now and then. How sweet is that?

Cue Up the Dogwood Tree Today

Even though it’s only September, the colors on that dogwood tree are absolutely gorgeous. So I knew I had to paint this sweet tree. Here’s this week’s painting.

People Say

People say you there aren’t any good people “out there” and people say “shock and fear” are the only way to grab people’s attention. I say “Heck no!” There are mighty fine people out there and a sweet story about a dad who loves his kids warms my heart. How ’bout you gentle reader?

Have you heard something or seen something sweet that defies what people say? Oooh la la I would love it if you shared it in the comments here. Thank you for joining me today!