As usual, 
when we head into a new year, it seems like a good time to stop, look back at the previous year, take stock of our trials, joys, adventures and achievements. I believe we all want to see the progress we’ve made in a years time. We may be getting older, that is a given, but hopefully a bit wiser. Learning from the past is imperative as we make adjustments along the way to create a full and present life for ourselves and others.
OK, I know it is March and these aspects are usually made in January but I finally learned to etch out a time for contemplation and writing. It’s all part of the creative process, right?
To all my Playful Pet Portrait Peeps, friends and family, I am eternally grateful for your support. I know I say it several times on my social media, but it truly means so much to see the joy and delight that these portraits bring to those who adore their pets. I can honestly say that while I’m working on a portrait – I’m smiling. My hope is that all those good feelings are infused into the painting itself.
Something else that made my heart swell with goodness was, believe it or not… writing checks! As most of you know, for each portrait created, a donation is made to the client’s pet charity of their choice. This holiday season, I sent over $200 to various pet groups throughout the Central Florida Area! I have more portraits in the queue and I actually look forward to writing more checks to these organizations that put in a lot of time and effort to find safe and happy homes for all those fur-babies.
I know I should let you know about the events BEFORE they happen so you can enjoy the festivities too – I’m working on that. Most times, I’ll put up the various events on my Facebook Page- Playful Pet Portraits so be sure to click the “follow” button so you’ll get the updates.
- This year began with a G Girl Production of their Glitz and Glamour fundraising event. I met all the stars and their Mom’s at this event in Palm Beach Gardens.
- Then it was off to the races with a 5K Dog Run for Pet Rescue by Judy. It could’ve been the coldest day in Florida, but there was plenty of doggie love in their hearts to keep them warm!
- January ended with a grand slam at the Deland Dog Parade! Everyone enjoyed the parade with the theme called “Hollywood Hounds”
- On the first weekend of February, I expanded my reach to The Villages at their Home & Garden Show. What a fun crowd! It’s a beautiful area and it was perfect for the Chilli Cook-Off that was included that day. The Rotary Club did a great job with this event!
- “Paws in the Park” at Lake Eola for the Pet Alliance has been the ‘top dog’ of this year’s events so far. I was busy all day long talking with you all and getting my “puppy-fix” that I didn’t really see everything that was happening throughout the event! Check out their newsletter page HERE to see all the tail-waggin‘ happiness and fun going on!
- Next stop on the Playful Pet Portrait express was the Mardi Gras Party in Downtown Sanford. Alfredo added to the festivities by doing caricatures.
During all these great events, I met a lot of you in person and was either greeted by your happy pups or enjoyed looking at the photos of your furry family members.
So, amidst all this activity, I’ve been painting, drawing framing and delivering Playful Pet Portraits! I’ve included some here but there are many more. My website has the most information for you. As for Social Media, I’ve got that covered with:
Something totally different that I’ve been working on through the past year is wire weaving jewelry. I’m using copper and silver wire to weave and swirl around precious stones like Labradorite, Mookite, Tourmaline, Malachite, etc. I’ve been learning as I go and challenging myself with each piece. While we were hiking in the Rockies, I would pick up rocks that looked interesting. Needless to say, I usually returned 5-10 lbs heavier with my pockets full of rocks. They might not be worthy of a pendant, but I won’t know until they are tumbled and cut. Right now, they are a mystery.
Now, looking ahead, I have a few pet events lined up. Coming up:
On the weekends in between, I’ll be promoting my Playful Pet Portraits
Stop by and sign up for the drawing to win a $30 Gift Certificate
towards your Playful Pet Portrait.
Playfully Yours,
Rae Marie,
your Personal Pet Portrait Princess!
P.S. If you present a deposit towards your portrait during one of the events or markets, you will receive a free set of notecards!
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