My dad, the artist.

I finally got these on the wall! My dad passed away several years ago but used to paint his grand kids these bird pictures for Christmas presents. He started with my oldest giving him the cardinal and ended 12 grand kids later with the goldfinch. They are all so special but the goldfinch has a special place in my heart.

The back story is he found out around Thanksgiving time one year that he had acute leukemia. Dr said if he survived to Christmas that would be a blessing. Well he didn't even start this last bird painting but with his perseverance and help from my older brother he was able to finish it and gave it to my youngest (and the youngest grand kid) by Christmas. You can see how much his skills were diminishing by this last one but oh so priceless. My dad made it to Christmas and the new year but passed soon after. He had a zest for life and left us all too soon!

My boys and I often talk about when we are feeling low or having a life challenge that we will often see a cardinal just outside our window or pass quickly in front of us. Coincidence? Maybe. But the comforting thought of him watching over is heart warming!