Have you ever read the children’s book, “How I Spent My Summer Vacation” by Mark Teague?  It’s a cute children’s book that should be read at this time of year, during the week school goes back into session.  I stumbled across this book when my kids were younger, and for some reason, I still think about it at the end of each summer.  This story is about a boy named Wallace. Back in school after summer break, Wallace is asked to tell about what he did during his summer vacation. Wallace lets his imagination flow, and soon he is writing about trains and cowboys and a Wild West adventure. 

I was thinking about this book as I signed four finished paintings today.  I was contemplating how we spent our time this summer (thankfully, it didn’t involve a move).  Everyone spends their summer vacation differently, at camps, traveling, and visiting family.  In June, I set a goal to paint my own version of the four seasons by July.  And then…SUMMER happened.  Suddenly, we had houseguests, one month of travels to Missouri and Maine, pool time, summer fun, reading, shopping, reuniting with friends and family, and trips to Paris and Luxembourg.  And, I must mention the two teens and a tween who had their own summer agendas to satisfy (insert smile).

Needless to say, I didn’t complete the paintings on my summer timetable.  Better than that, however, I really enjoyed my family and my summer vacation.  And, I took my time making these paintings exactly how I envisioned.  So, it’s September 1st and my four seasons are complete (mixed media on canvas, each 50 cm x 70cm).  I’d love to know which one is your favorite!