A picture is worth a thousand words...

Every one of my pieces is personal and every one has a story. Whether it's an emotion or mood or a specific event in my life; every one of my pieces comes from a very personal and special place in my life.
That was always one thing I loved so much about art; was the stories behind each piece. Whether the art was pulled from the story, or the story grew as the piece evolved...there always was a little part of the artist's life and spirit in everything.
And, there is one of my pieces in particular that I just feel like I want to share it's story.

The Honeybee

About a month before my birthday, almost five years ago, my grandmother was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Instead of enduring long hours of painful treatments that "might" prolong her life she opted to spend her remaining days at home, surrounded by family and friends. It was a very sad, but special time for us. At the time, I was lucky enough to have a very flexible work schedule and I was able to be with her for at least several hours almost every day of that month.
During this time, a friend of my grandma's came over to read to her one day and spend some time with her. While they were talking, she asked my grandma how she would come back to us. What sign would she give us to let us know she was at peace. The answer was instantaneous...she said to look for a honeybee.
At the time, I didn't think much of it; but the day after my birthday my mom called during my lunch break to tell me that my grandma had passed away. I told my mom I needed to grab some things from home and that I would be right over. I was only at my house a couple of minutes, and when I walked out the door to get into my car; there on the door handle was a single honeybee.
It made me smile through the tears, and ever since that moment, honeybees have always had a special place in my heart.
My grandma was a charismatic, loving woman; who inspired my creative side in so many ways and every time I paint a honeybee...I do so in honor of her.