Remnants of snow piles were melting a week ago. My children were running outside without a thought of a coat. I admit, we were anticipating spring. The view from our back door this morning had the potential of crushing our hopes. But it didn't. How could it? Snow falling is beautiful. And peaceful. And I am smiling while watching it layer the rooftops.

I spent yesterday afternoon perusing art magazines at our public library. I was easily the most entranced by an article in "American Craft" about Shawn Lovell, a blacksmith whose pieces are stunning works of art.

Images here and here.

John Singer Sargent's painting, "Girl Fishing at San Vigilio" (1913) brought hopeful thoughts to my mind. If such loveliness and peace exist in one painting, there must be countless works of art, literature, nature and creation that inspire the highest, noblest feelings in human hearts.  No need to waste a moment on anything less. The beauty that you or I perceive may be the result of someone's gift of time and talent, like Sargent's painting. Or, it might be the simple recognition of a kindness done, like when I came upstairs and saw my husband helping our little daughter get her hair ready for church. Or, the beauty that is nature's blessing may warm our hearts when we take a walk under the tangerine sunset sky. If we look for it, we will find it.

Painting found here.