This is a little pastel painting that I created while doing my artist in residence at Hot Springs National Park. I was wondering around the park and came upon these two trees that had grown together or became entangled, depending on one's own perspective. It was kind've interesting to see this, and curious. Were they two trees coming from one root base or two distinct trees growing into one? They definitely were coming up seperate from the ground. It isn't like there wasn't room for each of them to grow and expand next to each other. There were many other trees and you would think that the sun peeking through might have pulled them in the same direction but not together. The two of them growing together appears to make them stronger and more beautiful. They share the sunlight and available nourishment. An arborist would probably have a very simple explanation for this. Or maybe it is just a fluke - no explanation. They sort of defy nature, not unlike a lot of human relationships.

I was not only drawn to the twisting trees but to beautiful light and shadows, and the pattern and colors they created. One does not have to look far to see so much beauty. I think you really get as much or more from the simple things. Sometimes the enjoyment from them lingers longer and stronger than the things that seem so majestic and striking at first glance. Again, not unlike human relationships.

Okay, well this is my attempt to come up with something to ponder for Valentine's Day (tomorrow, in case any of you men, oops, people forgot), kind've some light, positive thoughts.

"We cannot hold a torch to light another's path without brightening our own". Ben Sweetland

"Anger is only one letter short of danger". Unknown

Happy Valentine's Day,

Helen