The Gift
When I got to high school, I didn’t have so much time anymore to practice my art. I played hockey and I had a horse. His name was Kolbooi. Every day after school and after hockey practice I would jump on my bicycle and ride the 7km to the farm where Kolbooi were kept. He came running to me as soon as he saw me. I saddled him up and would go for a nice long ride on the farm. Afterwards I would cool him down and brush him and treat him with some carrots. It was already late afternoon when I would take the road back home to arrive just in time for supper. After supper I had to do my schoolwork before I went to bed. I usually got up at about 5am to study for tests.
Me and my horse, Kolbooi. Don’t laugh at the hair!
Me riding my horse. It was the best of times!
It was mainly weekends and holidays that I had time to paint. I was still using the “How to paint” books, and I really enjoyed it. I realised God gave me a gift and I had to develop it. I was also so grateful towards my one teacher in primary school who continued to encourage me. I made this painting from one of the books and gave it to her as a gift for her birthday. I can still remember how glad she was to receive it. She passed away at a young age, and I have no idea what happened to the painting.
I also had to sell my horse a few years later. It was avery sad day! But here I am today, still painting!
