Starting Over

On August 10, 2018 our house burnt down.

My Husband and I had moved into this house in 1981. We had gotten married in 1976 and we had our 2 year old son, 32 chickens and 4 goats.  Bill built barns, fences, gates, pens and a milking stantion.  Over the years we planted fruit trees, berry bushes, and grape vines. Bill made a still and we had brandy, mead, grain alcohols   We had a big garden, we make goat cheese, our own soap and  3 more babies. We canned, dried, tanned, composted. 

When the kids were teens, Bill coached and prodded them and together we added a greenhouse, a masterbedroom, back porch and a very large family room. The Missoula Rural Fire Deptartment Investigator said it as a very well built house. Which made it difficult to put out the fire.

Bill Velde died of cancer on July 3 2016. So much suffering. It was very hard on the kids and I but we grew closer during that time.

During Bill's last year, I set up an easel right outside our room, and started drawing.  It became evident to me that the time off I had taked from drawing and painting had not slowed progress.  A curious soul never stops taking in. 

The next 2 years, I painted feverishly, calling on my children, friends and grandchildren to model.  Now that work is gone, except for the digital copies taken by  Photographer Terry J Cyr. He is helping me built this website.

So once again, I am starting anew.  I have family, friends and supporters. 

I want to thank all the people who came to the rescue after the fire.  People are good, kind, thoughtful and generous. To the people that I know: I love you. To all the people that I've never met: Your God of choice, bless you. I am Blessed.