The Stone Mason’s Yard

February is still a difficult month for me, seven years later … I often paint a picture for Steph. Last year, it was “Sledale”, on the way to the field where he is buried. My mother had reacted badly to the chemo, and the sky in my painting was very dark and brooding…
This year I decided to paint the yard where I went to pick up the stone for Steph’s grave. I thought I would like a dark sky again, with a bit of blue on the edge, but my many attempts at painting rolling clouds failed. Instead, it’s nothing but blue sky.
I take it as a reflection of my mental state. I’m fine. I miss him, and think of him everyday, but rather than cry, I feel so priviledged to have known and loved him.
PS. This painting is now sold.