Art.  Art is the reason I'm writing to you today.  Art is the reason I am smiling so broadly.  Art is a glance into a person's soul, and I am going to let you into mine.  Just a glance mind you... don't think you can take up shop. 

Letters to Elise

     In the summer of 2013, I went to Uganda, Africa on a mission trip.  Our mission was to discourage the spread of malaria in the remote villages.  We handed out treated nets, traipsed across the fields to ensure they were being used, prayed with the village pastors, played with the village children, washed clothes at the village well... all the while proclaiming the name of Christ.  I think Africa changed me much more than I changed Africa.  Christ showed me that He would never leave me or forsake me in a way I have never experienced before.  I tell you this because Africa inspired art in my soul.  I came home, alive in spirit and overflowing with anticipation for the future.  In my little upstairs room at home, I took a paint brush in my hand, and painted without holding back. 
     This painting Letters to Elise is also painted on the very walls of my heart.  Elise and I are cousins and best friends.  We share everything with each other, pain is shouldered together, happiness is doubled.  I dedicate this piece to our friendship.  May it never die.  I love you, Missy!