Alverta

I wanted to share an amazing opportunity that fell on me and express how thankful I am for it.  My wonderful friend Jennifer Rodick, who is a brilliant photographer, told me she waned me to complete a portrait of her grandmother who was 96 and in failing health.  She gave me the portrait last month and I started on it April 22.  This picture was from her early 30's and was a beautiful portrayal of that era.  I have always admired the era for its magical sense and loved the photographs for their simplicity.  When Jen initially told me about it, she said that she wanted to have the portrait commissioned so when her grandmother passed away and it would be a piece they could display at her funeral. 

First off, what an honor it was to be asked to do such a special piece.  Words cannot express how humbled it made me feel.

I was notified by Jen late last week that her family was gathering by her grandmothers bedside.  I had begun working on the piece but was nowhere near comfortable in the potential of giving it to her.  So I had been working on it as much as possible in the spare time that I had just hoping that I could make good progress.  I got a message from Jen on Tuesday that her grandmother had went on to heaven and that the funeral was on friday.  She was going to be leaving town today to be with family.
Secondly, I was sick.  Not only because I was not done with her portrait, but I was really sick!!  I left work on tuesday with horrible congestion and decided to call in sick from work on Wednesday.  Being a determined person that I am and ultimately knowing that this was the primary reason why she wanted to have the piece done, I worked ALL DAY long on her portrait.  I had never sat for that length of time on a piece and it was a great test to see what I could do under pressure.  I don't know if it was the decongestant I was on or the fact that I was numb anyway from the congestion, but I did it!

I was able to get the artwork to Jen before she left today and it's now in very good hands.  What a blessing.  I love you Jen and you and your family are in my prayers.

Me saving time while I draw!!