Brother & Sister

[Kimberly Dow]

Congratulations! A crying mom...that is special.

[Marvin Mattelson]

Hi Janel,

I've been digging through the threads to try and catch up on what I missed while I was away, teaching in Atlanta. Congratulations on your first commission. I think you've done a beautiful job. I particularly like the little girl. The progress you've made since you first posted the portrait of your daughter has been exciting to see. Keep up the good work and I'm looking forward to seeing upcoming commissions.

The most compelling thing about painting, for me at least, is that there is never an end to my own self improvement and growth. How boring it would be otherwise. Better than a roller coaster.

But I caution you to be careful letting on to people that you love what you do so much. They may start asking you to pay them.

[Janel Maples]

Thank you Marvin,

Yes, this first paying portrait for me was a big step. Not because I got it, but because I accepted it. As you know, I turned down a family of five (and two dogs) not too long ago because I did not feel I was ready to do as good of a job as I would have wanted to do for them. I knew I could do an OK job, but I want to do better than OK.

I wish I could express in words how my progress has made me feel. I love knowledge. There is so much more that I understand today than when I first posted here. And what an exciting journey I am on, there is so much more to learn and understand in the years to come. I have come to the realization that as long as I am able to take a breath and can still hold a paint brush, I will NEVER again be bored. What a great feeling that is. Yes, better than a roller coaster.

I am not capable of not letting people know how much I love what I am doing. You met me, this stuff excites me. It is not something I can contain. Also, I am not doing this so I can get paid, I am doing this because it is in me to do.

You have helped me a great deal; this is not a secret nor will I ever forget it.

[Marvin Mattelson]

As you well know I love this stuff too.Enthusiasm is its own reward.