Sunny Delight. Watercolor, gouache, pen. 4 x 5, 140 lb. cold press paper. © 2014 Sheila Delgado

This was a delight to paint. I am trying to capture the look of a sunflower I did early last month. In that I think the head is much too dark, but the petals are very nice. Just another reminder of one of the great things about painting. You can always try again!

I watched a video about being grateful each day. I think it is a great lesson for all of us. I know that in my earlier life, being grateful was not something I thought about daily. I was too busy with work, life, stuff.

But ever since my diagnosis in 2007 (Lupus), I am very aware of all the gifts I have to be thankful for. Right now, this moment, I am thankful for the view out my window. Fig tree, Bougainvillea along the fence, mountains beyond. It is not a view I get to see everyday. Dog sitting has its perks. While I am here, I am taking notice.

Remind yourself of one thing you are grateful for today. Or all the things.

While you are making breakfast.

Sitting in traffic.

Falling asleep.

You can sneak it in.

O give thanks unto the Lord, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever. ~ Psalms 107:1