Self Portrait

She's finished, ...er I'm finished. Well, the painting is finished. My decennial self portrait (that means every ten years). With a crown atop her head she is imbuing the goddess within. The jewels represent her three daughters who gave her claim to the position. Perched on her head as they are continually on her mind. She gazes heavenward - giving thanks, seeking guidance, remembering to have perspective and balance. In one hand she holds paint brushes. In the other she lovingly touches her heart necklace with a "G" for Gavin. Her bracelet is skulls carved out of whale bone. It is a reminder of mortality. She wears an apron to represent chores and duties and the joy to be found in a job well done. And, it has a pocket to hold anything that might have been forgotten.