The Fox and the Hummingbird

This painting by @stephkellettart holds so much meaning to me. When I lived near Rossland, BC, a very dear friend of mine passed away in July of 2018 from a rare and aggressive form of cancer. Mere hours after his passing, in the morning, I was standing outside drinking my coffee, still crying. I was very suddenly visited by a hummingbird who flew over and just hovered in front of my face for about half a minute. I had no feeder there, and no flowers in that area of my yard that would attract them. The next morning, the exact same thing happened. I’m a big believer in the afterlife, in soul connections, in signs from the other side, and I knew in my heart that it was Jamie. ❤️

The following winter, I spotted this painting hanging on the wall of a little shop in Rossland. I didn’t get it that day, even though I really wanted to. I had guests with me, and we were walking; I didn’t want it to get ruined. I returned a couple of days later to find that it had been purchased, much to my disappointment. However, there was a small greeting card available, so I settled for that.

It holds meaning to me because the fox represents me (I love foxes!) and the hummingbird represents Jamie, hovering in front of my face to tell me he’s ok, he’s at peace. The accuracy of this representation blew my mind and I knew I was meant to find it. Incidentally, Jamie always encouraged me to write and take the leap to get published, because he knew how much I’ve always wanted to do so. He would randomly come into the office we shared and say, “So, have you finished writing your book yet?” Every time I look at the little greeting card on my desk, I’m reminded of him and can hear him encouraging me still. I know he’s watching and can see how far I’ve come this year with my writing, and I know he’s smiling with approval.

He is the inspiration behind a new book idea that’s completely different from my Jennifer Leighton fiction series. I can’t wait to get started on it.

I’ve just ordered an 11×17 print of this painting, “Return to Joy”, and I’m really excited to get it in the mail. I’ll have it framed and properly hung on my wall.

Thank you, Stephanie, for sharing your talent with the world and especially for creating this piece. Somehow, I feel like this was made just for me and Jamie.

If you liked this post, hit the like and share buttons and hit follow me for updates on my adventures in writing! While you’re at it, please go visit Steph’s website and peruse her supremely talented works!

Have a Happy New Year, friends! 🍾🥂