Sunday, February 13, 2011

HER BELOVED GIO


8x10 oil on canvas panel nfs

I admit I sometimes get behind in visiting other blogs and there are times when I will visit a blog and keep reading until I feel "caught up" on that artist's blog.

About a month ago I was visiting Sherry Massey's blog and found myself reading and reading and realized how much I had missed. Sherry and her husband fell on some very hard times and for what must have been a most difficult decision, returned their beloved Gio to the breeder with the understanding that they WOULD be back to take their Gio home with them once their lives returned to a sense of normalcy. During that time something happened to Gio's health and the breeder made the decision to have him put down. With tears streaming down my face, I read about her love for her wonderful friend and their shock in learning of his untimely passing. Life can be so hard and so unfair, I find things that cannot be explained are the hardest to accept, and to me, this was one of those times.

Perhaps it's just a highlight on the top of Gio's head, but I saw a heart and thought this could be a little valentine gift for Sherry. Happy Valentine's Day, Sherry, this painting is for you! I know it is not the same as having your precious Gio, but I do hope, in time, it will bring you some comfort. I hope you are reading this or perhaps someone will send you this way, please e-mail me with your contact info and once it is dry, I'll put your painting in the mail for you. Take care all and Happy Valentine's Day to each of you!

23 comments:

Dewberry Fine Art said...

This is really beautiful in so many ways.

Autumn Leaves said...

Oh Angela...There are no words to tell you how much you've touched my heart this morning. I read your blog each time there is a new entry, my friend. I can't stop the tears here. You've caught that special something in my boy's personality. It shines through those beautiful, human-like eyes of his. Giovanni is a Spinone Italiano, and he was the best dog I've ever had. I miss his low woofs and his need to always sleep by his mom. I miss his love. And you've made my tears flow too.

carol morgan carmichael said...

What a special gift. Sherry is so giving and such a supporter with her comments to artists. What a treasure you are giving her!

Ann Rogers said...

What a lovely gift and gesture, Angela. I've been keeping in touch with Sherry through her recent ordeal and I know she is so deserving of such a special gift. Gio is beautiful, and so are you!

Dana Cooper said...

Angela, you have touched the hearts of many with this lovely tribute to Sherry's Gio...it's a real gift from the heart!

Thoughtfully Blended Hearts said...

A beautiful painting Angela...and now I'm sniffing!!!

SchnauzerMom said...

That's a wonderful gift, very special. You did a great job with it too. I was so sad to read that Gio passed away.

Roxanne said...

Angela, I am so touched by your compassion and thoughtfulness. How inspiring.

Thanks for stopping by and leaving a sweet comment. Temple is inbetween Austin and Waco and yes! I will be closer...2 hours closer. :)

Kathy Cousart said...

Angela,
What a lovely painting and a heartfelt generous gift that has touched all of us. I am also in tears and appreciate knowing such a wonderful gesture.

Edward Burton said...

What a very sweet portrait, Angela. This is wonderful.

Ruth Andre said...

What a doll baby!

Gwen Bell said...

OH NO! The painting of this little angle touched my heart so and it is so sad to know that he's gone. The sentiment of the heart on his head is so sweet. I know your tribute to little Gio will be a lasting and comforting gift for Sherry. (sniff)

LindaHunt said...

Angela...you have painted such a lovely tribute of love. I am touched beyond words...Beautiful.

Kelley Carey MacDonald said...

Oh, Angela, I'm fighting the tears just reading the story. You are such a kind, compassionate soul. What a wonderful gift, so beautifully done.... I guess you're 'paying it forward'....

Unknown said...

What a sweetheart you are Angela [of course we all knew that] I can see by Sherry's post you've already realized how much you've touched her heart. (hugs)

Camille LaRue Olsen said...

Angela, you are well-named, you are just an Angel. I'm so sorry too for Sherry's shocking loss and this was so good of you to do for her. I am proud to know you. The one good thing is that Gio isn't suffering now but I know he is sorely missed.

Claire Beadon Carnell said...

Angela, you warm my heart with your loving and generous spirit. What a wonderful thing to do for Sherry and her family - I am sure that they will treasure this beautiful painting of their beloved Giovanni.
Bless you.

Unknown said...

Thats a very special gift Angela, beautiful painting)

Vern Schwarz said...

Angela, you are the best... what a beautiful portrait and gesture.
This painting will be treasured always.

Christine Throckmorton said...

What a lovely, generous gift. I'm sure Sherry is over the moon. If anyone deserves such a special gift, it is indeed Sherry. I've also been creating a portrait of Giovanni for Sherry, and I now have a tough act to follow. Very well done!

JudyMackeyart said...

Angela - you are kind to do this. You made me cry reading this as I miss my dogs too...Gio is probably watching from above as an angel :)

Mary Sheehan Winn said...

Angela, this is beautiful in every way. A generous gift from the heart.

MichelleZ said...

What a sweet painting and a wonderful gift. So sad to hear the story, but what a beautiful reminder.