Dancing Flowers I--The Lady Belles Dance &

Dancing Flowers II-- Three Ballerinas

When my oldest son was younger, he was very enthusiastic as I found my painting niche of flowers.  He enjoyed helping me with ideas on my "next painting".  He one day said, "Mom, your flowers should do something and not just sit there".  On a paper plate he drew a picture of two flowers dancing the waltz.  So--needless to say I took my sons advice and came up with two dancing flowers paintings which of course he loves.  I still have the paper plate.

"Never Again"

I started this piece a few years ago and just recently finished.  When I began searching for pictures of dogwood tree flowers I came across "Legend of the Dogwood Tree", author unknown.  I was so moved by this legend, and although it is just a folk tale it reminded me that God really does love that much.  I decided to do more than an interesting composition.  I worked into the edges of the petal in the center of the piece to form an image of Jesus on the cross.  It is hidden (to some) and needs to be studied a little to be seen.  Because I had done this I couldn't help not see the image.  After asking several people including my children no one was able to see it until I pointed it out except for my younger son.  He walked in one day and said "Yea I see Jesus on the cross".  --Interesting.  I still become filled with emotion when I read the legend so have included it for you as well. 

In Jesus' time, the dogwood grew
To a stately size and a lovely hue.
'Twas strong and firm it's branches interwoven
For the cross of Christ its timbers were chosen.
Seeing the distress at this use of their wood
Christ made a promise which still holds good:
"Never again shall the dogwood grow
Large enough to be used so.
Slender and twisted, it shall be
With blossoms like the cross for all to see.
As blood stains the petals marked in brown
The blossom's center wears a thorny crown.
All who see it will remember Me
Crucified on a cross from the dogwood tree.
Cherished and protected, this tree shall be
A reminder to all of my agony."
 

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