To Natalie in Italy

This morning (in fact, just a few minutes ago), I received a most touching phone call. I saw that on my caller ID was an international number so I assumed it was my friend Fran calling from Australia (Hi, Fran, hope all is well!!!). Much to my surprise, it was not Fran but a lovely, lovely woman calling me from Rome. She had by chance stumbled upon last month's article about me in the New York Times and had been deeply touched by it. She was particularly moved by the painting I did on painter's dropcloth which was featured as part of the story.

(Photo by Sara Essex Bradley for the New York Times)

I came to learn that her late father was a very talented artist who painted similar paintings on the same medium. She told me that upon reading my story and seeing the painting, something moved in her so much so that she felt the need to reach out and connect with me. She hesitated calling me at first and then took the plunge. We had a lovely, wonderful conversation and both she and I realized that although continents apart, we have a lot in common -- in particular, the love and influence of our fathers (both of whom also appear to have been very similar).

I want Natalie to know (if she happens to read this post and I hope she does!) that her phone call to me meant more than she can ever imagine. You have touched me by reaching out and telling me that I made a difference in your world somehow. I am honored to know that by reading my story and seeing my painting I brought you back memories of your father and in some way, touched you. That is what my art, this blog, and my work is about. All of your comments, phone calls and support (and I'm talking to everyone who may be reading my blog or sees my work online) mean the world to me and move me and inspire me to new heights.

Don't ever feel like you can't reach out whether to me or anyone else who may inspire you. You'll be surprised to know that everyone needs to feel connected in some way and to know that their life and work have meaning.

Natalie, please email me or call me anytime. I am honored and humbled that you reached out to me this morning.

Have a wonderful day/evening wherever this post finds you.