Charles Burchfield (Chas to his friends) once noted how an oak leaf had fluttered down and stuck upright in the snow in his neighbors yard, like a flag, for the entire winter. It weathered many Buffalo "gales" and storms and thereafter Burchfield used it as a personal symbol of steadfastness. In fact its alternate title is "Steadfast Leaf."  The painting he made of it is attached here "Constant Leaf, also known as Steadfast Leaf" 1960, watercolor and graphite on paper.

And, speaking of leaves, I indulge in a short meditation on how the forest floor leaf litter reminds me of the mutual beneficence of a group of artist friends. Hope you enjoy!