Florence Feline

Florence Feline © 2012 Amy Hillenbrand
8 x 10 oil on board
$170.00

 Why is this painting called Florence Feline you ask? Back in 2007 I was lucky to go on a fabulous painting trip in gorgeous gorgeous Tuscany.  It was spectacular. We spent  most  of the trip in a 1000 year old villa in the beautiful countryside and at the tail end of the trip the group spent a couple days in Florence. I saw all the fabulous sites the  Medici Museum, Micelanglo's David and the Petti Palace with the Boboli Gardens. We arrived late in the day so the Palace was closed. I'm still sad about that. I guess I will have to go back, right? The gardens were magnificent and lo and behold I came upon the palace kitties.  I think this little guy was just waking up from his mid-day nap.
 
I know this a blogging no-no, but I feel the need to explain my long absence. As I often talk about on this blog, I was called to follow my heart. This time my heart took me to the bedside of my Mother. My family learned of her uterine cancer last August and my Mother and Father bravely went ahead with chemo and later radiation. She actually did quite well on the chemo.  The cancer was aggressive and in the first week of April she had emergency surgery to repair her intestine that had been damaged by the cancer. I felt so fortunate to be there as this all occurred. This was just too much for her weakened body and on May 10th my Mother left this life. I spent about 5.5 weeks away from home and am just now feeling like I'm getting my footing back. I know I could have been no other place at this time. As I painted this painting above, I recalled all the times my Mother encouraged my talents. She was one of my biggest cheerleaders. I will miss her dearly being on this earth plane with me. I'm very glad I followed my heart.  Thank all of you who have sent me notes and cards. I now know how good it feels to be remembered during times like this.




 

Comments

  1. XO What a wonderful memory XO
    I am thinking of you and hold you in my heart! xo

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  2. So very sorry for your loss. Glad you could be there for your parents when they needed you most. I am sure you will continue to feel your mother's love and support as you move forward in your creative journey. Love and hugs to you and your family!

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  3. Amy, bless that heart that you follow! You are in my prayers as you make your way into a place of healing. Love you! ~Rachél

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  4. I just love the painting- Florence is beautiful! You can paint!! I am so glad you had all the time you wanted and needed to be with your Mom and know that she cherished that time too. My thoughts and prayers have been with you and so glad to see you stepping back out a bit. Your big cheerleader is still there and watching from above. If I could get to you I would hug your neck! Take care Amy!!

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  5. First, I'm so happy you mentioned (and put a photo of) your beautiful mother. You gave her an enormous gift by spending so much time with her as she fought so hard against her disease.

    Now, this painting of the kitty- just - Wow. It blows me away. You are a great painter, girlfriend...

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  6. Beautiful painting and beautiful photo of your mom. I'm so sorry to hear about her passing but I am glad you have such special memories with her. You are in my thoughts.

    Jill

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  7. She was a beautiful woman. How fortunate that you were able to spend so much time with her. I am sure she will continue to be your cheerleader and encourage you to pursue your painting talents.

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  8. Your artwork is stunning! Your mom looks radiant in that photo. I wish you love and healing!

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  9. What a fabulous painting!!! And what a spectacular picture of your mom- full of light and love. She is with you always. It feels like even I can see and feel her influence in your sweet life now that you are home. You are thriving and she continues to be a strong cheerleader for you now. Much love to you my dear one...

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  10. so glad to see your wonderful paintings back in my inbox Amy. Lovely note & picture about your mom; I know she's still encouraging and cheerleading you on. When you're ready, you'll know that too. xxoo, Celeste

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  11. Oh my goodness, Amy, what a great painting, as always, and so good to have you back. How wonderful that you could be with you mom, for those 5 weeks. So glad that you shared this beautiful photo, and remembrance. Best wishes to you and your family for peace and comfort.

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