The goal of  most realists is to accurately paint their subjects – a child looks like a child and a twig looks like a twig….BUT…

Look closer – much closer! Twigs can also be the homes of imaginary beings. How many can you find in this close-up view of a painting?

How many beings (including me) are hiding in this close-up view of the same painting?

Answer: 6! One is in the upper right, lower left, and center section of each close-up view.

This baby dragon was fun to create.

The  little boy in the painting (below) is my long-time friend Benny.

I was drawn to (pun intended) his capacity to always find the good in everyone and view our wondrous world through the eyes of child.

My idea became reality the day he showed me a photo of himself as a small child.

Mandy may have the physical attributes of a male mandrill – but don’t let appearances fool you!

In fact, Mandy is simply an adorable, gentle soul whose gender doesn’t require a classification or label. Her heart, brain, and spirit identify as female – therefore she is!

Several years ago, John and I visited our local SPCA to adopt a companion for our Huskador named Timber.

The wonderful staff brought out every female in the shelter to meet Timber, but none were interested in our hyperactive, high-spirited canine genius.

Finally, a lady asked another: “What about Katie?” Katie was scheduled to be euthanized because she had failed the personality test. We weren’t bothered by this.

Well! The rest is history! She loved Timber and he loved her! Timber passed away a few years ago, but Katie is happy, healthy, and 16-years-old. She’s the gentlest, sweetest, most lovable dog we have every owned.

A special thank you to the wonderful staff who decided to give Katie a second chance!

http://www.novascotiaspca.ca/dartmouth-animal-shelter/