I was excited to receive permission allowing me to paint International photographer Tony Weatherman's photo of a purple rose entitled, "Old Master's Rose,” of Nebraska Fine Art Photography and member of ArtWanted. It was a happy challenge to paint this lovely rose based on his original photo. Tony’s enthusiastic response, "...You did a wonderful job and I love it...," was indeed encouragement to my artist's heart. This rose was starting to be touched by the cooler weather of fall and already its leaves were beginning to yellow and wither. Yet, as I added Paula's Glass-wing Butterfly there was now new life on the edge of this delicate flower, signalling hope and beauty yet to be treasured while new roses would bloom once again in the spring! Immediately I knew I would entitle it, "The Last Rose of Summer." How amazing is the fact that God blesses us with such lovely and delightful creations. The wonder of such intricate detail and beauty becomes a bright spot in sometimes very dreary or burden-filled days. Our Heavenly Father comforts us when our burdens become heavy as in Psalm 138:7 "Though I walk in the midst of trouble, You will revive me...”. And also in Psalm 126:3, "The Lord has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy." Praise encourages our hearts in such times and blesses the Lord. Enjoy.