Thanks so much for your feedback and advice. It’s so reassuring for me to hear that others have similar challenges. In my deepest of hearts, I *know* that my past has been a vital part in creating the me that I am today, and that my variety of experiences makes for a unique perspective. This is so easy to forget in moments of insecurity and doubt, so it’s very refreshing to hear it from you, someone who doesn’t know me but took the time to respond with your own life experiences and advice. I greatly appreciate it. :)

“Win at the slowest possible speed” — FANTASTIC! I think I need this written on my wall. And thank you for the compliment on the Leyendecker! I’m very proud of that mastercopy!

I took a peek at your blog, and I love, love, love the paintings featured on your portfolio! I’m interested in pursuing concept art and visdev, and can’t wait to take some of the matte painting classes at Art Center!

Again, I appreciate your support and feedback. Hope to hear from you again. :)

I have been a late starter my entire life. Nothing I have put my hand to has ever been at an early age, it was always long after others started and perfected their craft. The feeling of being left behind was constant. The added stress of having to earn a living at the same time became an excuse for not pursuing my passion which perpetuated that feeling of being behind the 8 ball.

A friend pointed out to me that every single thing you’ve ever done, is a LEGITIMATE, worthy and unique stepping stone that has brought you here today. You are you because of it. Accept it, embrace your past.. and your future. It is yours and yours alone, unique. No one has your stepping stones, no one has your particular insights or experiences. The timing of bringing art into your life at this point is no accident, you chose it, at this age, for a reason.

You will draw on your past in making art whether you know it or not, and that will eventually show up as your distinct style. Let it happen, let the past in, go at YOUR pace, it’s not a race. Win at the slowest possible speed another friend once advised.

Don’t worry, everything is already perfectly where it should be, relax and have fun. ;-)

ps. Your Leyendecker copy is fantastic!

I recently read one of those stories that get passed around on Facebook, and while I usually think “Nice story” and don’t give them a second thought, this one really struck me because of how relevant it was. It was about a psychologist who holds up a glass of water and asks a group of students she is teaching stress management to how heavy the water is.

She ultimately points out, “The absolute weight doesn’t matter. It depends on how long I hold it. If I hold it for a minute, it’s not a problem. If I hold it for an hour, I’ll have an ache in my arm. If I hold it for a day, my arm will feel numb and paralyzed. In each case, the weight of the glass doesn’t change, but the longer I hold it, the heavier it becomes.” She continued, “The stresses and worries in life are like that glass of water. Think about them for a while and nothing happens. Think about them a bit longer and they begin to hurt. And if you think about them all day long, you will feel paralyzed – incapable of doing anything.”

Too often I let my fears paralyze me and I feel like I’m just going through the motions of life while my mind is riddled with anxieties and fears about the future. I need to let go of them in order to really experience and appreciate the present, no matter how uncertain I may feel about my circumstances. Anyway, I wish I could give you one big hug, but I’ll be able to soon enough! :) Hang in there!!! You are one of the most talented and driven people I know, and I know you will continue to accomplish so much in the decades ahead of you!

Miss you!!! xoxo