What a joy to know and have such stories and memories. That first World war, and it's subsequent wars, really took the heart from so many families and vastly changed the Western world. What a time it must have been to be alive prior to and after to see the vast changes. And how wonderful to see the painting palette beside his work, both so expressive with colour. I really loved this post. My own family had a few artists and one bohemian lady artist who painted when it was not 'the done thing for a lady' so she speaks to my heart. These familial connections really bring home the feeling and importance of family!