A few month ago, a dear friend hired me to paint a portrait of a recently deceased King Charles Spaniel, "R.B." The portrait was to be presented to the dog's owner as a birthday present. The resulting thank you note, sent my friend, underscores why I do what I do. "You know I am rarely speechless. When I opened your gift of a beautifully framed portrait of R.B. I was in fact speechless. Leslie gave it to me on my Birthday and tears came to my eyes. the artist captured R.B.'s likeness and spirit. I felt as if he was sharing my Birthday. Your amazing gift I shall cherish forever.
Thank you for giving me one of the best and most appreciated gifts of my life. Your thoughtfulness, generosity and fine taste made my Birthday so special."