April 26, 2012:   I've been thinking a lot about
'Home' this week. This piece was inspired by
two amazingly talented fellow artists in this
60/60 painting challenge: Rose, who often
uses toys as her subject matter; and, Sue
whose dog "Wren" was missing for a frantic
week (and who's now home 'safe and sound').

While I've never met Wren, who is a Shetland
Sheepdog/Miniature Collie (picture a smaller
version of Lassie); I know the anguish felt
when a four-legged family member is missing.

So, in honor of Wren's homecoming and with a
hat tip to Rose's toy paintings, I pulled out one
of the few childhood toys I still have...my
well-loved, raggedy-stitched, stuffed Lassie.

Most people have seen "Lassie Come Home"
with Roddy McDowell, or watched an old TV
episode of "Lassie" (with either Jeff or Timmy
characters), or have read one of the many
children's books. In every story, regardless of
the challenges faced, Lassie always makes
it Home.

Home...that place where we (and those we
love) are safe; and, all is as it should be
at the end of the day (as defined by you).

I wish that feeling of 'Home', for you and
for those you hold dear in heart.