I LOVE being part of the arts and medicine program at Baylor Hospital in Dallas. The program’s aim is to treat the whole person, not just the body of that person. My goal is to share the joy I find in painting and perhaps, break up a hard day of work, treatment, or caregiving.

About this painting: I made a goal this year to do 12 big paintings (as defined by me, BIG is bigger than 2ft by 3ft). This is painting number 5. I was attempting to capture our little cat and the joy he experienced as he hunts. He loves to: crouch, waggle his hips, and POUNCE! I think humans share this joy of tackling a project, or goal, or hunting something down.

As I painted today, it was my joy to share in people’s joys. Many people stopped by to talk about my art, or cats…I heard stories of longings and struggles, and lots and lots of joys. The flowers in the field reminded one woman of her life’s work of creating floral arrangements and all the special occasions she has created flowers for., it was wonderful to hear her stories.

Before I left, I hit the Woolly mammoth of joy stories!!!! As an unsuspecting woman walked out of her appointment, she was surprised to find her community waiting to welcome her. It was her girlfriends, her sisters, her mom, her husband, and even her grandma. They were there with posters, and bells, gifts, and soooo many helium balloons. It was her last day of chemo and they were there to congratulate! This witness spread joy like a wildfire through the hospital. Nurses and doctors were validated. Other patients were encouraged. Everyone was inspired, by the patient’s struggle, and the community’s outpouring of love. Here is a photo I snapped from my easel. These moments of joy are all around if you just take a little time to hunt for them.