Today is Thanksgiving Monday in Canada – a day that I usually reserve for getting over yesterday’s big family feast and for getting in some quiet reflection.

This year, my gratitude list is quite long, mostly because it contains the names of so many new friends (online and in town) that have entered my life and encouraged me. I had no idea what this year of art-making would bring, and it’s turned out to be so rich with learning experiences, both painful and pleasurable but always full of aliveness. I’m grateful for having freedom over my time, afternoons in my studio, old friends who have kicked me in the butt and come to my rescue, family who’ve listened and cheered, and so many wondrous things in this world that have made me run for my paintbrushes.

There is much more that I am thankful for, and it’s a goal of mine to remember this on a daily basis without the reminder of a designated holiday!

And speaking of running for paintbrushes, here’s Mini piece #54. Drawn and painted from a photo shot Thanksgiving weekend 2015 at Toronto’s Evergreen Brickworks (a converted factory, now an events and market space) as the leaves begin to turn colour. Another thing I’m grateful for: autumn in Canada!

#54 – Brickworks City Skyline