Thank you James Parker

 I nearly choked on my lunch burrito when I read James Parker's post today.  He's such a sweetheart and I'm a little overwhelmed because I feel that he was thinking about someone else when he made and gave this 'keepsake' to me.  Edward Burton on the otherhand is a generous man, great artist and a perfect recipient.   James Parker doesn't know how his art wow'd me when I first discovered him after I submitted my first DSFDF challenge.  

Here is the poem James wrote to accompany the Keepsake.

I had some folks come visit, my humble little blog

And leave a thoughtful comment, 'bout the painting I had logged.

I don't know how to tell them, or even where to start,
Of the wondrous gift they gave me, bringing joy to my heart

Some days are dark and lonely...I feel that life's a bore
But those simple words of kindness, have brought sunshine to my door.

So as a recipient, I need to give this keepsake to two other bloggers.

Michelle Burnett

Michelle is my very first follower.  I didn't even know what a follower was until her little avatar popped up on the side one day.  From that day, she has been my cheerleader and inspiration that has in large part enabled me to be as candid and open on this blog as I have been.  She is a wonderful artist and also awesome mom.  Her support and artistic sense have helped me arrive to this point in my blogging and altruistic abilities with my art.  Thank you Michelle.

Judy Mackey

Judy is someone who I went to early on because we went to the same High School in Japan and she is very successful with her art and marketing and networking.  When I asked for advice Judy went far and beyond what I expected.  She literally took me by the hand on somethings (such as selling on eBay) and given me example after example of how she's built her business up.  She also is using her art to help animals something I've drawn inspiration from.  I can never repay her for her advice and encouragement and just hope her Karma bank is always filled to the hilt.  Thank you Judy.