The video narrative above depicts one of the most poignant moments of my painter life. Late summer last year (2019), I discussed the idea of a painting with Carynn, my potential new client. The painting she had in mind was of her daughter caught in a sweet, connective moment with a giraffe. We talked about the potential of it, but never put it in motion. Later, Carynn’s boyfriend, Don, who is also a dear friend, pulled me aside and gave me the green light to get started without Carynn’s knowledge. The idea was to have it ready by Christmas. I began the painting and Thanksgiving came and went and things were coming along. I was also preparing for the local art crawl show the first week in December, which was set to be one of the largest events in the downtown area because of a local new hotel opening and a Christmas tree lighting ceremony. About a week before that show, Don told me that he and Carynn were attending the Christmas tree lighting and would stop by the exhibit. We both had a light bulb turn on at about the same time. It was gonna be tight, and the painting would still be wet, but I’d do my best to have it on display. So, I finished it just in time, paint still wet to the touch! Our friend, Tom Moucka caught the whole thing on video. (Above) Before this moment, Carynn didn’t even know this painting existed. What an absolute pleasure to share in that moment!

This is one of those benchmark moments. What is a creative moment in your life that you can return to when things feel dark or uncertain? What is a moment that can put you back on your feet? For today? Can you loop back to that moment, or those moments and source energy and purpose into your forward moments? Can you think of a time where you know in a deep, inward space, that you have valuable things to contribute? That you have a voice that the world needs? In what ways can you draw upon those times? How can you put one foot in front of the other today and immerse yourself in inspiration and clarity? Give yourself the gift of finding out and moving toward those life-giving, inspiration- infused moments of magic!

Carynn’s Surprise 36x48 Oil On Wood Commission for Private Collection