u/OneBookTwoStories

A painting I just finished in memory of Ruby, our pet chicken.

We got her right around the time my husband’s grandmother passed. He named the chicken after her, as a way of keeping her memory alive.

When Ruby the chicken got sick and passed, the grief took us by surprise. It felt like losing the same loved one twice.

This painting of my daughter holding Ruby is our way to honor and remember both of them.

I’m using these watercolor studies as an excuse to organize the thousands of wildlife and landscape photos I’ve taken over the years.

I have a several of this little guy and I still remember that piercing stare so clearly! 🫶

Watercolor study from a photo I took at the Potter Marsh Bird Sanctuary in Anchorage, AK.

Does anyone else obsess about finding the “right” frame for their paintings? I know I do!

I started looking for a frame for this painting many months ago. I knew (in my mind) what I wanted, but I had no idea where to get it from.

I’m happy to report that I found one and I love it!

Ended up ordering three custom-made frames (from different makers). While the other two were also beautiful, this one was simply on another level.

I think she wears it very well and I hope you all like it too!

PS: This painting is now off to a show in Charleston, SC where I hope others will get to enjoy it too.

This painting is still a work in progress but I just finished painting this section and I wanted to share some thoughts about it…

I know this may not resonate with everyone but sometimes, staying as close as possible to the reference photo, is about honoring the subject and bringing them back to life.

For better or worse, I wanted Ruby to look like Ruby in this piece and she does. 😍

To the point where it makes me and my husband a bit emotional.

We see you and miss you girl! 🫶

I started this painting with a goal to explore. I wanted to play with color, texture, and a combination of mediums.

In that process, I found her. 😍