Fly Fishing at Yellow Breeches

There is just something in this man's blood that makes him want to constantly fish. Like the rivers and steams literally run in his veins.  Such love for this hobby has reminded me of what my passion for art, creating and capturing moments is. Today I took Dakota to the Yellow Breeches for the first time to fish. I sat on the bench along the stream and worked on some paintings. But I also brought along my camera too! I like to see what he catches and with my fancy lens, I can zoom in and get some pretty awesome photos as well! This is the only time Dakota smiles for his photo being taken!

6 to 26

I'm sure I have shown off my giraffe drawing from when I was 6 years old multiple times before. It may be one of my favorite pieces I have ever created. I still remember sitting in front of the T.V. watching my favorite show at the time called Pappy Drewit. A wonderful show that had the goal to teach children to draw. (Later at Pratt, I actually got the chance to meet Pappy Drewit! I showed him my little masterpiece and he signed my sketchbook next to a printed copy of my giraffe.) I also remember how proud I was of my drawing, and running outside with my computer paper piece flapping in my hand as I ran to my dad to show it off. For my seventh birthday my mom put it in a little frame and I was so proud.

Anyway, I've been trying to paint more lately and brush up on my watercolor skills. I couldn't decide what I wanted to paint and as I was searching through old photos I came across my lovely giraffe again. Immediately I was inspired to create a similar piece just... 20 years later. Some responses I received on Facebook were encouraging and positive. But one that stood out was a comical post from a close friend stating "Sam, have you been trying to out do yourself since you were 6? Great job!"

Lylah #31!

Here are some photos from my adventure with little miss Lylah who is about 2 1/2 years old. You can see her creative process through some of the photos. You can ask, "How does she have a process?" Well, a habit I have noticed that a lot of young children have, is that no matter how many brushes I may have on the table, they will use every single one of them!

This has taught me to only put out a 10-15 brushes. That still seems like a lot, but I put a different color on each brush and if I don't put many out, I don't get as many exciting colors on the paintings.

 Here you can see the before and after images. I'm so proud of how this little masterpiece has turned out and the grandparents are as well! They have even sent me photos of the beautiful painting newly framed and proudly displayed above the fireplace. It is such blessing to be able to capture paintings of children at such a young age. A wonderful keepsake! Thank you for the experience Lylah!