8 - FRONT AND CENTER

FRONT AND CENTER

10 ½ x 17 ½ inches

(c. late 1880’s—Great-Great Grandparents’ home, Arizona Bottom, near Tekamah, NE)

After the flood took their first home, my great-great grandparents wisely moved to higher ground. Having lived a life filled with challenges and hard work, Grandmother is seen in this painting sitting front and center in her majestic chair—watching friends enjoy a croquet game on their lawn.

One of many news publications about them wrote: “The Youngs were hospitable and looked forward to entertaining. Their home was the scene of many a merrymaking and the shelter of many a wandering home seeker.”

Settlers needed endurance and a strong faith. Both dark and Light were part of their path. Those who survived and flourished showed that despite the trials and darkness, they repeatedly chose to follow the Light.