"In Memory..."

...of Judy Butler...

(1944-2010)

a fellow artist, cactus lover, and blogging friend...

an inspiration

to all who knew her.

You made me smile...a lot!

I will always treasure your upbeat emails...

your playful "Cactus Mundi"...

your enthusiasm for all things Arizona.

I love that you taught me what a "sussie" was! :)

I will always hold dear the

beautiful art cards

you so graciously traded with me-

the backs of each so wonderfully detailed with

descriptions and lovely comments-

(I just loved that!)

♥

Your joy of life...

your passion for art and nature...

your beautiful, loving, and generous heart...

your love of all things "family"...

These are among your many legacies.

I feel really privileged and honored to have "met" you.

You were one very special lady.

Rest now, Judy...

in blissful eternal peace.

"In Celebration Of Life..."

Today, I HERALD

the coming of a long awaited Spring...

when thousands of thorny desert plants show

their fanciful frilly side.

It is that sorely needed...predictable, cyclical time of

soulful renewal and regeneration.

I herald its arrival...so near, so very near...

with a big smile in my heart...

and an artistic Muse whose pen is ready to dance.

♥

Today, I also HONOR

the incredible life force of Renee...

whose loving and beautiful spirit at last flies free...

renewed and regenerated and shining,

blooming in vibrant yellow...

swooping raven like...here and there

in that glorious and sacred place...

where the only things that now circle her head

are starry nights and golden light.

I honor her life

with a big smile in my soul...

and bits of stardust in my sketchbook.

XO

“Our Lord

has written the promise of resurrection,

not in books alone,

but in every leaf in springtime.”
~Martin Luther

1483-1546