Dwight’s oldest and dearest friends, Richard and Lois Kozlow, made us comfortable in their home in Birmingham, Michigan. Visiting their home was like going to an art museum.

A prolific artist himself, Richard’s art was featured along with an eclectic variety of canvas, sculpture, and pottery from around the world.

In my home, I have several of Richard’s pieces.

Dwight, Richard, and Lois taught me to surround myself with beauty and things that I love.

So, my home is filled with art. I have Don Weller’s watercolors featuring my cowboy friends; prints of paper airplanes and pomegranates from T. Doskora that I bought at the arts festival; black/white prints from Ruth Orkin; photos of the doors in San Miguel Allende where I met Richard and Lois; Dwight’s centerfold featuring the twins from Malta; photographs; a giant print with fairies from James Christensen held in velvet frame; original paintings from Cuba; and, more . . . so. much. more.

My house is full.

Each year, I say “no more art.” I don’t have room. I cannot buy another piece.

But, a few weeks ago, Richard’s daughter emailed me. She told me there was one canvas from “The Fat Lady” connection left. At 6 feet by 4 feet, I didn’t know where I could hang it, but I knew I needed it.

Yes.  Need is the right word.

Dwight told me the story of Richard’s “Fat Lady” series. One of them hangs in a mens’ club in Michigan. One was in Richard and Lois’ bedroom, where I dressed for my wedding.

My Fat Lady arrived on Thursday. Right now, she is being stretched back onto her frame. She’ll come home next Thursday and hang on one of two walls large enough to hold her. My Fat Lady will be in my dining room.

Then, last night, I saw a framed signed poem by Sarah Kay at a silent auction.

Today, I moved the pomegranates so I could read “The Paradox.”