Fuchshund

When we visited the Dallas Museum of Art, I was happy to see Gustave Courbet's "Fox in the Snow" again.  Although it is violent, I find it very beautiful.  The shawdowing -  the blacks, blues, and grays - the contrast of the fox against the brightness of the snow - all these elements (I am poorly describing) create a painting I could view every day.

But then again ... 
 

I don't think I need a painting when I already have a little fox-hound at home!

Horny Toad

A few weeks ago we had a little surprise waiting for us by the front door:  a Texas horned lizard or "horny toad."  This little fellow was so docile and sweet.  His face, skin, and feet were full of wonderful detail.

  

David had never seen one in person and was enthralled.  I hadn't seen one since an afternoon playing on my back porch in Post when I was 4.  Once an endangered species, they are now protected. We both wondered why this rare little creature picked our front porch for a rest.

 

We put him in our front garden, where he quickly disappeared, but that hasn't stopped us from pausing there everyday to see if he's still with us.

A Reminder

For the past few months I've been suffering from the most terrible attitude about where I am. Such an attitude can completely consume you, debilitating your work, relationships, and spiritual journey.  

After a very tearful conversation with a close adviser, I was reminded that I must pass through this desert before I can expect to live in greener places. "You must pass through this desert" has dominated my thoughts the past few days and has brightened my perspective.  It is no accident this came to me at the end of Lent, near the end of our desert of waiting.  

Wishing you a blessed Easter and Paschal season.