Nancy
 

I was going to start out this thread by explaining (in a whiney-type voice) why I couldn

Beautiful, beautiful, beautiful.

Beautiful story.

Beautiful woman.

Beautiful painting.

I can feel your love and pride in your post and your portrait.

Jean

Thanks John!

I want to share with you what most of my reference shots looked like...this lady knows how to laugh. I've never had a worse model! Or laughed so hard during a shoot.

Kim-- She turned out beautifully! You can feel the warmth of her personality.
P.S. I just love your reference shots. :D

Thanks Jean and Terri!

Terri - I told her she can have the painting, but all the shots of her laughing are mine. I have about 30 like that where she is laughing so hard she is crying. They are hilarious. Each one has a different facial expression. This is what always happens when you point a camera at her. Im going to put several in a row like this and frame them.

Beautiful portrait, wonderful Mom. I don't know how she did it either.

I've never painted my mom, for some reason I worry that I couldn't do it. Maybe it is time to try.

I'm thinking it was because she had such a perfect child. :D

This may not be done yet actually....she is moaning about the teeth. I tried to tell her.....

Wonderful painting, beautiful story, and what pride she must feel about her beautiful, successful daughter!!! Brought a tear to my eye, Kim!!

Her warmth and personality shine through. You've captured something truly special.

Kim this is wonderful! It looks like one of your paintings that has just painted itself. You have really caught this beautiful noble person.

Now we see where YOUR strength and character come from! Thanks for sharing this.

Garth

Amen to what John says. I'm not surprised you have a mother with this kind of grin!

Thank you Pat, Garth, David and Linda! I appreciate it the kind words. :D

What fun memories you will have of the reference photo shoot. She turned out lovely.

I think I should paint my mom.