These custom pieces continue the family tradition of commissioning pencil portraits to capture the wonder of childhood. Inspired by the style of their father's portrait, I wanted viewers drawn in by each child's expressive eyes.

As I completed each of these drawings, Travi, the studio cat, observed with intense interest perched on my shoulders.

Aimie, the Boxer, is a true testament to the value of a good dog. 

Her first 7 years were spent chained up outside. She gave birth to several litters and was abandoned at a high kill shelter. Not much of a happy life with a potentially desperate ending.

Fortunately, Minnesota Boxer Rescue found Aimie and placed her in a foster home. They discovered a few health issues including a cancerous growth on her spine. With the encouragement of a few kind humans, Aimie championed through several operations ready to be adopted.

Good karma brought Aimie into the loving home of an active family. Aimie delights in snuggling with the kids and learning to play new games. 

Her health again became a problem when she was diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy that affects her mobility. Doctors say Aimie isn't in pain and is over wise healthy. Her family invested in a doggy wheelchair, and Aimie took off! She and her family enjoy going to pet events and sharing the benefits of rescuing senior or disabled dogs.