a secret something (part 1)

I started a little project months ago, for one of my fiance’s best friends, Teddy; he wanted to get something meaningful for his daughter Autumn’s second birthday (not just another pile of toys that would eventually get left behind). After seeing my grizzly portrait that hangs in my family’s cabin, he knew he wanted to commission a large graphite drawing from me. The other two points of inspiration, came directly from his daughter: her nickname “squishy squirrel”, and this stern look that she often gives her dad (reminiscent of a very serious owl). We talked a bit about imagery, but Teddy basically left things up to me… Since we were staying with his family for the OOAK show, I decided to double to size of his commissioned drawing, as a thank you for hosting us. Today I am sharing a couple process photos, and tomorrow I will share the finished piece, along with Autumn’s reaction!

life goes on…

…or so they say. Mourning the loss of a loved one is never an easy process, although because I am a realist, I think I have an easier time than some. I look at death as an inevitability, and at the risk of possibly sounding morbid, I truly believe that “we are all born to die.” This is the main reason why I tell friends and family “I love you” every time I say goodbye, because it honestly could be the last time I get to tell them. The timing and circumstances of these inescapable hardships can not be controlled, but what we can control is how we react to these devastating moments. I recently read a quote from Da Vinci that really helped me put Dexter’s passing into perspective: “As a well spent day brings happy sleep, so a life well spent brings happy death.” My pup had a fantastic 11 year life, filled with love, excitement and outdoor fun; there is nothing to regret about the way he spent his dog days. So this is how I must try and move forward: let go of the unchangeable loss, and instead cling to the many heart-warming memories.

best day ever

Nothing is more inspiring than love. Yesterday was one of the most beautiful days I’ve had in a long time; My aunt and uncle invited all of my eastern family over and put on a fabulous party for us. The highlight was finally being able to have my fiancé John meet my grandparents in person. It was such a blast, time just flew! There was a ridiculous spread of food and many laughs and smiles. This is the best way to enter a long craft show week: with a full heart.