The actual date of this post was Wednesday January 18. 2011
This past weekend my 3 year old grandson, Jude, helped Julian and I work in our Garden. It was amazing to watch him do tasks his Dad, Aunts, Uncles and Cousins had started doing years before. He was so proud of his contribution. I thought to myself how important it is for a child to know the value of his help. Our family has always been a huge support to us in the creation of this one acre Garden we call home and studio (see more of the Garden, if you like, at www.lamanchaglassgardens.com )
One of the 3 stories I’m currently illustrating was written when my oldest kid was 2. It’s called The Birdie Tree. I’ll be able to use Jude as the model for the child in the story his Uncle inspired 40 years ago. Another story about a tiny elf will use my Granddaughter, Nandi, as the elf model. Photos will be shared soon.
I was reading an article in a gardening magazine tonight about the inspiration Beatrix Potter took from nature in the Lakes District where she lived and from her gardens. In my own little way it was so real to me. I feel very lucky to live in the Garden where Oliver Anole was born. And I’m not sure he would have been born if I’d lived somewhere else. So...thanks to all that have and do help.