Cousin Memorial in New England

Last year we heard that our oldest cousin unexpectedly passed away after dealing with a new cancer diagnosis. She has just started chemotherapy and apparently died from a pulmonary embolism at home. I had just spoken to her at great length the day before. It was quite a shock. At the time there was no mention of funeral arrangements due to Covid. After a while it was determined that a get together memorial this summer would be nice. In the mean time, her husband, daughter and grand daughter set up a fund at Tufts University where she attended college. Two weeks ago we took a road trip to New England. Another cousin had called and asked if we would like to stay in her inherited family’s side by side home that she has since renovated and rents - she happened to be in between renters on one side. So we agreed and were happy to be on our way. We hadn’t been out of the state for three years and were anxious to get back to a routine of sorts even thought the reason for the travel was not exactly a happy one. But at least we would have the opportunity to see some familiar faces. We hadn’t been to New England since my parents surprise fiftieth wedding anniversary in 1998 - which happened to be at my cousin’s house. She was my mom’s flower girl. We had a lovely time visiting with everyone at the memorial “picnic.” On the way out we were given a plant in Judi’s memory. It now sits above the tv along with the other plants. Now I’ll think of her even more every time I look at it. 

The Dog Memorial Portrait

It didn't start out that way. I opened my Etsy shop two years ago featuring digital art. I grew up on watercolors and pastels, pen and ink, and sketches. But when the iPad came along, my life really changed and my hobby blossomed. It started with a win in The New Yorker Eustace Tilley contest, and featured works in the employee art show at The Library of Congress. Capitol Hill and Washington DC are highlighted in a lot of my art. Three of my children's books feature fish, grandsons, family life, and cities. Trips to England, Iran, and Denmark spark some creativity. But one of my favorite subjects to draw is a dog. So far, I've done quite a few. Several are on display at the Wagtime Shop across from the Navy Yard on Capitol Hill. There is just something about a dog - or a cat. We had two wonderful animals when we lived in Milwaukee. A golden retriever named Natasha and a beautiful Borzoi by the name of Tatiana. When they left us, they took a part of us with them. I guess a lot of people feel the same way. One of the most frequent requests I receive for a custom portrait is of a dearly departed pet. And one of the best compliments to receive is that I captured the spirit of that beloved pet in their eyes. It's so rewarding to get positive feedback on anything, but there is just something special about the bond between a pet and his owner.