New Commission & the way to make my day

The above artwork is special. It was commissioned by the kindest customer who had written a poem for her friend, a doll maker. From the first moment this customer contacted me, i could feel the care and love in her words and how special she wanted her gift to be. That sort of thing is inspiring. It makes me feel a real responsibility to meet and exceed expectations.

The customer had referenced one of my popular series of little girls’ artworks; Dream. Create. Grow. Fly. Since she loved the style so much, i really pulled inspiration from those when laying out the sketches. My intent was to show the take-em-anywhere-and-everywhere kind of love a child has for a special toy, in this case, a doll. i hope i succeeded.

After the artwork was carefully packed up and shipped out, i waited patiently to hear how the gift would be received. This is always the part where i become so nervous i could bite my fingernails down to the nub! Then, finally….the word came in. The eagle had landed. And happily, the eagle made the recipient cry….happy tears! YAY!!! These are the moments that MAKE MY DAY. And in these moments, i realize why my job is worth it.

Of course i love to put my creative vision out into the world. That feels good. Of course its nice to make money doing something i love to do. But really, the thing that makes every day worth it are the happy memories and keepsakes i get to realize for my customers. When i get an email that tells me i’ve done a good job, exceeded expectations or made someone’s birthday/anniversary/any day all the more special, i cannot help but smile.

So thank you from the bottom of my heart to every one of you who has allowed me the opportunity to participate in a moment in your lives. i can’t wait to see what’s next.