Embracing Innocence and Wonder: The Story Behind "Tanner’s Snowman Kiss"

The Importance of Presence in Our Lives

Innocence. Wonder. Magical moments. Those are the things we cherish as time slips through our fingers. But what if we could revisit these moments? Would we experience fewer regrets? Would we learn to be more present? I truly hope we would.

Regrettably, there's no way to turn back time. All we can do is focus on today and the future. We have the power to change our trajectory. It might mean pushing our worries aside because we have more pressing matters to address. It could involve nurturing our relationships, healing past wounds, and fostering closeness.

We may need to confront generational trauma, ensuring it doesn't affect our children and future generations. Perhaps we wish to bring order to the chaos that disrupts our lives and robs our family of peace. Whatever it is, dealing with these issues now allows us to love deeply and with fewer regrets.

Surrendering to a Higher Power

These thoughts can be overwhelming, especially if you're like me. How do we implement change? In my experience, it's only possible through faith and the incredible grace of God.

I've explored countless self-help books and expert podcasts. While they can be enlightening, they don't always lead to meaningful change—especially when I believe it all falls on my shoulders.

I've learned that true transformation happens when I surrender everything to God. When I allow Him full control over my life and circumstances, solutions appear in ways I could never have imagined. Miracles unfold, far surpassing my own plans.

Surrender is the key. Trusting God is essential. I must wait with expectancy, knowing His restorative plan is at work, transforming everything for good in unexpected ways. I often struggle with this. I find myself resisting His ways, which are not my own.

The Wisdom of Ann Voskamp

Ann Voskamp articulates this beautifully:

“The Word Himself is the Author of our stories, the only One who has all the authority to re-story and restore us, and the Word keeps writing our stories right into eternity, till the last word is a good Word.” (Excerpt from “A Lent to Reflect, Part 2” - read it here)

Trusting the Process

This idea of constant return resonates with me. Life is a journey of revisiting the concept of surrender, as I often forget what it means. The author of my story works through all my mistakes and circumstances to restore and rewrite my life with His infinite grace. If I can hold onto that truth, then all the fear and anxiety that knock on my heart can leap off a cliff. I won't forget that God is greater than my failures and brokenness. That awareness brings peace.

I wish I could say I've mastered this practice, but the truth is I haven't. The past few months have been filled with struggles, and my peace often feels out of reach. Nonetheless, this realization reassures me that it will be okay, regardless of how it feels.

The God of grace will restore and rewrite all of it. YES! And AMEN!

Creating “Tanner’s Snowman Kiss”

I have wanted to create this piece for a long time. The reference photo of my oldest son was taken when he was around three or four years old. I have cherished that image ever since.

After working diligently for three days—day and night—I completed it just in time. My goal was to submit it to the Idaho Watercolor Society’s Annual Juried Exhibition, hoping it would resonate with viewers. Regardless of its acceptance, I am thrilled to have brought it to life, especially ahead of the annual show.

Why I Choose to Create

Creating work that speaks from and to my heart is vital to me. Yet, it can feel conflicting. My creativity often faces opposition when it’s solely for me or born from my vision.

While I enjoy commissions, I recognize the importance of pursuing personal creativity. This endeavor is a part of my purpose, and I intend to be much more intentional about it moving forward.

Your Thoughts Matter

I would love to hear your thoughts and experiences regarding this journey. Please feel free to reply or click the button below to share your insights. Conversations like these are so much richer when shared in person.

Spring Brings New Hope

I hope spring is blossoming in your area as it is here! Here, the chance of building more snowmen is not likely until November. For now, I will relish this new piece and embrace the hope that spring brings.

Have a blessed week, friend!

Warmly,

Kayla