The days between Fall and Winter are a metaphor for life as an artist. One day, the vibrant colours of the leaves, crisp air, clear blue of the sky dotted with clouds in a hurry to get somewhere, lights you up and you think, “I can paint anything”! The next, overcast with a bone-chilling wind blowing off the lake, and a greyness that seeps into you bones, invites introspection, and the thought that maybe, you just aren’t up to the task…..Both so necessary; the shadow, and the brilliant highlight…..

The poplars stood like a gaggle of girls

Gossiping as I walked by

Swaying slightly in the wind - a dance of intimates

I glance at the loon bucking in the brisk wind and frothing waves

How is it he (or is it a “she”), looks so calm

Amid the icy tumult

I am more like the loon - I think

But without the serenity

Maybe that is what the poplars are on about