H a p p y  N e w  Y e a r  ~ my lovelies! On the first day of 2022 I want to present a very special art doll inspired by one of my illustrations! This is Hope! My habit of going for power walks first thing in the morning, after all the boys have left the house, is proving to be more than just good exercise. Walking in nature nurtures my mental health as well as being a constant source of inspiration.

Lately I’ve been paying more attention to the birdlife. Especially now that the river is flowing there are even more types of birds around. The ones I see most often are the wood pigeons, collared doves, hooded crows and the little house sparrows. Sometimes, I can hear them but not see them so I try to make a note of their calls and look them up when I get home. For example, I often hear the Cyprus Scops Owl, I can tell by its distinct two-note call, but I have never seen it. The Birdlife Cyprus website has been really helpful in identifying the birds! One of the birds I do not see very often but when I do I feel so so happy is the Cattle Egret, a bird belonging to the heron family, and that is why I decided to include it in this illustration.

The heron symbolises tranquility and stillness for us humans. We need to understand these two elements well if we wish to recognize the opportunities in life. The symbolism also signifies determination because we are bound to wade through marshes and ponds through life’s journey, but we must never give up. And when we feel we are in the darkness we must try not to give up hope. So here is Hope!