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!