The four tree of life paintings represent our inner journey through life. The final one in this series called Summer, is that moment when we get rid of all our trappings. This is the moment when we recognize our true self and cast off all the masks and veils that we have hidden behind. The first in the series is called Autumn. This is the beginning of our journey through the tree of life. The painting shows us in our different aspects of how we see ourselves. We act how we think others want us to act as mother, wife, daughter, sister, husband, son. or teacher. The painting also has images from my dreams and symbols that have meaning for me. The falling leaves represent the emotions we gradually let go as we realize they do not serve us. The painting called Winter, represents a time when we face a real upheaval in our lives, when every thing gets twisted and turned around; maybe a death, or divorce, or serious illness. Our understanding of who we are is turned upside down. The painting called Spring, represents our facing and coming through the dark time into a better understanding of ourselves. Our personality becomes more whole and true. We come into the light, and continue our journey with a new heart.