Beach

Oil on canvas (original dimensions: 36”x72”)

This painting is one of my all-time favorites! Sometimes as mothers we lose ourselves in the day to day life of taking care of others and forget ourselves in the process. After having children and being married for almost 20 years, my husband and I finally went away by ourselves. On that trip, I realized that, without the need to (joyfully) feed and care for the children, I needed only to feed that part of my soul that craves adventure. So there we were in Olympic National Park in Washington and we found ourselves at Ruby Beach. We had just come from a snowy mountain top and, to get to the spot depicted in the painting, I would have to cross the river with its sharp rocks and freezing, icy water. I started through the water, but my husband reminded me that I would ruin my new hiking boots. So I removed them and off I went.  He thought I was a bit crazy but it was exhilarating!!! My husband waited for me as I crossed the river alone and climbed through the rocks and these beautiful giant bluffs. As I went, I saw many photographers wearing chest waders setting up tripods and cameras. I too took photos as I watched the sunset – remembering who I am – still fun and sometimes in need of a little adventure in my life! The next night my husband and I returned to the same spot. This time we came prepared, crossed the river in crocs, and enjoyed the sunset together.

The biblical verse in this painting is:

“יהי רצון מלפניך, ה׳ אלקינו ואלקי אבותינו שתוליכנו לשלום, ותצעידנו לשלום, ותדריכנו לשלום ותגיענו למחוזז חפצינו לחיים ולשמחה ולשלום  ותצילנו-מכף כל אויב ואורב בדרך ומכל מיני פרעניות המתרגשות לבוא לעולם, בכל מעשה ידינו, ותתננו לחן ולחסד ולרחמים בעינייך ובעיני כל רואינו ותשמע

קול תחנונינו כי אל שומע תפילה בתחנון אתה ברוך אתה השם שומע תפילה”

“May it be your will, Hashem, our G-d and the G-d of our forefathers, that you lead us toward peace, and place our footsteps towards peace, guide us towards peace and make us reach our desired destination for life, gladness, and peace may you rescue us from the hands of every foe or ambush along the way and from all manner of punishments that assemble to come to earth. May you send blessing in our handiwork, and grant us grace, kindness, and mercy in your eyes and in the eyes of all who see us. May you hear the sound of our supplication, because you are the G-d who hears prayer and supplication. Blessed are you, Hashem, who hears prayer.” (תפילת הדרך, The Prayer for Travelers)

As we enter the summer months and continue to take care of others, don’t forget your own desires, hopes, and dreams. Live life to the fullest! You are worthy!

Also Featured in The Jewish Art Magazine Presented By The Jewish Art House Issue 2 Vol. 1 (Non-Explicit) by The-Jewish-Art-House – Issuu