Posted on Jan 7, 2018 in Blog |

Dearest Friends and Family, As I prepare to write each year’s letter, I reread the previous year’s letters. Rereading my 2016 letter was like reopening a fresh wound and rubbing salt in it. My grief has “improved,” lessening in intensity and frequency, but it remains constant. I have always believed that even our worst moments offer gifts, if not immediately, eventually. I know God is always with me, guiding me to my next growth opportunity. Work Jeff is continuing with Home Equity Builders (www.hebinc.com). We are readying for a big master bath renovation. I am continuing with www.myNeighborsNetwork.com. Gifts At the end of February, I was dreading the first anniversary of Dad’s admission to the hospital and the 26 days that followed. That same week, I started dreaming in images, something I have never done before in 54 years. It became so intense and obsessive, I bought some paint and brushes and try to paint what I saw in my dreams. I had never painted, drawn, or done anything artistic before that week. The entire month of March, through the first anniversary of Dad’s death, I painted. And I have not stopped. Nor have the images in dreams and visions. A friend saw my work and encouraged me to join our local Artist Studio. I did and then I participated in my debut show in the local art tour. I sold my three largest pieces and did very well. It was a fantastic start to a new passion. I have also completed commission works for individuals as far as Las Vegas, Nevada. You can see some of my pieces at www.sharonraineyart.com. I had two more successful art sales/shows in December. In the meanwhile, Jeff started perfecting his work with the camera lens. His favorite subject is a pair of bald eagles near our cabin in Maggie, VA. Though, honestly, I love his scenic pieces more so. He can capture birds in flight and sunsets on the pond. I think I have talked him into joining the local Artist group as well and participating in local events. Entertainment In September, Jeff and I saw Sting in concert at Wolftrap. Score...

Read More