Time to Get Fired Up and Gallup into the Year of the Horse!

I hope this first email of 2026 finds you safe and healthy. Hopefully, you've had time to recharge and are ready to embrace the joys that await in the months ahead.

Celebrations have already taken place to usher in the “Year of the Horse” or the “Year of the Fire Horse.” Although both terms are acceptable, I prefer to refer to 2026 as the “Year of the Fire Horse.” The reason is that adding the element of “fire” focuses more attention on passion, rapid change, and bold ambition - all admirable qualities to strive for in enhancing your life. The last Year of the Fire Horse was in 1966. The next one will not occur until 2086, so this is the perfect year to begin outlining and achieving your personal goals.

Looking back over the last few years, I realized how complacent I had become in my own life. Others around me were commenting on how quickly each year seems to pass by, leaving no real accomplishments to look back on. Many said there was the “same old, same old” feeling because the instability in our lives only gets worse, and nothing seems to change. I almost fell into that same negative mindset when deciding whether to create another piece of artwork for the year of the horse. Horses are difficult, and I didn't think I could draw such a magnificent animal.  I said to myself, "Why not continue. I created a beautiful dragon in 2024, and a charming snake in 2025, and they were loved by many people.

Year of the Dragon, 2024  (6"x8")

Year of the Snake - 2025   (8"x8")

 When I created my dragon and snake for the prior two years, I remembered what a joyful experience it was. I decided to erase my feelings of complacency and just forge ahead. And, I’m glad I did. Motivated by three of the characteristics that this year embodies - taking decisive action, maintaining resilience, and achieving the feeling of vitality - I designed a dramatic painting of a pair of colorful horses galloping freely and swiftly across the hills, totally focused on where they were going. I hope the painting inspires you and others who view it in a similar way.

Year of the Fire Horse, 2026   (8"x8")

The Year of the Fire Horse began on February 17, 2026 and will continue until February 5, 2027. Remember that positive breakthroughs and long-term success are possible by grasping the key elements of this year so they can ignite the fire within you. Take advantage of this unique opportunity to enjoy all the good things that can be accomplished. That’s certainly something I plan to do. Join me! o 

If you are inclined to share, I'd love to hear one thing you plan to do this year. Remember, sharing is a powerful tool to help others grow. 

I have a limited number of fine prints available for sale.

I was so moved by the Dragon, Snake, and Horse pictures that I decided to have high-quality art prints made of each. I also have a limited amount of Momotaro art prints.

Momotaro, a boy born out of a peach who saved his village by fighting the Ogres (8"x8")

Use them to adorn your wall or gift them to someone special!  If you are interested in any of these designs, the current assortment of watercolor paintings and prints can be viewed and purchased at Artfulgivingshop.com      

Please allow extra delivery time.    

Hi from Momo. "I'm still practicing going down steps. Mom tells me I'm improving and soon I won't be scared anymore. I want to be like a horse, free-spirited and gallop down stairways!"