Tuesday, September 6, 2011

The Itch

Can you believe that it is already September?  Summer seemed to rush by in a flurry.  It was filled with wonderful birthday celebrations, loving anniversaries and the devastating loss of my beloved brother, Paul.  He was diagnosed with lymphoma in December 2010, and although we were prayerfully hopeful for a full recovery, he did not respond well to the chemotherapy treatment.  Throughout it all, however, he remained upbeat and positive.  His faith and courage will forever be an inspiration to me.  

It was our habit to share text messages on a regular basis.  During one of our last such conversations, he asked me about this blog and encouraged me to keep painting.  He was such a sweet brother, encourager and friend.  So, here I am again.  My blog posts may be sporadic for a bit, so please bear with me.  Thank you all for your patience and for your friendship.  I truly appreciate the blogging community that we share.  Simply put...you guys are the best.

5 comments:

Sonya Johnson said...

Oh, Darla, I'm so sorry to hear about the loss of your brother....:(. I can only imagine how difficult it must have been to go through his illness and loss over those months.

May you find healing through your art, your family and friends, and the blogger community :).

Glad to see you back, btw.

Page Pearson Railsback said...

Oh Darla..Welcome back. I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You are such a loving person and have the best , most positive attitude about life and love. This painting is lovely. Thinking about you

Darla McDowell said...

Sonya and Page, thank you both so much for your kind and thoughtful words. They mean a great deal to me. As do you two sweet ladies. Thank you again. :)

Linda Nickles said...

Darla, I am so sorry to hear about your loss. You have been missed, and my heart goes out to you.

Darla McDowell said...

You are always so sweet and thoughtful, Linda. Thank you.