Originally I wanted to make this image the reverse angle of The Antique Shop, but I changed my mind halfway through. It could be, but it might not be. I didn’t put any lettering on the window or prices on the items, so although it might be another antique shop, it also might be a home. Christmas Carousel Pony stirs up memories of years gone by. The image makes you think of an adult who has saved things over the years to remind him of what has been. Every part of the décor has its own story to tell. Some bring smiles and even laughter to our hearts, while others bring tears of joy to our eyes. The carousel pony, perhaps bought at The Antique Shop, is handsomely attired in its holiday harness, topped off with a Christmas wreath. All of the greenery framing the frosty windows was selected from our woods. The red poinsettia is also known as the flaming star of Bethlehem, which I didn’t know until after I finished the painting. Another wreath, symbolizing eternity, rests at the pony’s feet and the two candlelit lamps reflect the spirit of hope and faith. - PL