I’ve been watercolor painting again after a whole year’s sabbatical, but SOMEONE thinks my choice of subject matter leaves something to be desired. Why I’ve picked it up again, will be explained further down this post.
Nekoka was kind enough to offer me several poses to choose from for my next painting.
I won’t bore you with his whole reel but suffice to say, I will attempt to meet his poser demands. I tried to tell him my skills aren’t anywhere near ready to take on his handsomeness, but he just urges me to practice, practice, practice…
Bandit and Merlin offer no comment, having their beaks full at the moment.
Did I mention that I quit my job, leaving the computer industry after twenty-five plus years, to pursue a career as a pet sitter? Yep. I did that. I keep trying to put a post together about it but let me just say, I am SO HAPPY to not be working where I was, and SO GRATEFUL that it was possible. My only income right now is from renting out my townhouse back in Pennsylvania, and savings left over from buying my new home here in Tucson. Despite that, this was the best decision I’ve made in years; this enormous weight is off me and the future is wide open.
I’ve signed up to volunteer at a local cat rescue and that makes me feel so good. I’m starting to get my name out there for pet sitting opportunities, and eventually hope to get on at a real pet sitting business. But for now, I’m decompressing and letting what comes come. I will need additional income, but I’m not stressing — which is amazing and part of why I know I’m doing the right thing for me.
And I’m painting again! And so is Lilith, although I’m sticking with watercolors while she seems to prefer vegetable puree.
Grandma’s very happy to see some of the genes from her side of the family showing through! Lilith LOVES to eat!
Wazeau's World 
Nekoka ….simply majestic! 🙂
Yep, he’s a stud and he knows it 🙂
Congrats on leaving the corporate world!! I was just reading about a new pet sitting service where I live. I would think it would be a lucrative business after your name gets passed around. Maybe you could include a personalized painting of the pet when you pet-sit them.
Nekoka has some strong poses going there. Can’t wait to see him on canvas or whatever you will be painting on.
And who is cuter than Lilith!!!
I must admit I’m a bit prejudiced, but I think she’s just about the cutest grandbaby ever! And thanks, I’m very glad I finally said “screw fear” and did quit. I worked hard all my life to get to a place where it was possible and if you don’t go for it, then its your own fault, right? I am sick of computers and corporate horse-hockey. I just want to pet cats, walk dogs, and flirt with parrots… And crochet. and watercolor. and volunteer where I can make something of a difference. And write!
Wow, congratulations!!!! I am sending you power vibes, for the financial security to pursue a happy life! Great to see how the animals are encouraging you to paint — and you see how Merlin (and I) want you to write more. Kind of him not to do that with the computer cable. That picture of Lilith is completely enchanting. What a little cutie.
Thanks so much for the good vibes and kind words. You are one of my heroes even though I only know you through your writing. Your positivity is inspirational.
Oh goodness — I wish you could see the smile on my face. You are such a dear!
I so envy your retirement. I hope to join you later this year and I know I will never be bored or wonder what to do with all that time. I can’t wait! Congrats!
It is not an easy choice and it won’t be an easy road ahead either – but you know it was worth it! Your turn will come!
Congrats on the courage to take this step. We spend a lot of life working and if you are not enjoying it you are cheating yourself out of a good portion of happiness. I am looking forward to reading about your new adventures..
Thank you! I sort of feel that I’ve been numbing myself and dumbing my self down for the last thirty years and now it is time to wake up again. This time I’m choosing happiness!
Sad that we have to learn to choose happiness. Seems it should come naturally. After 30 years you are well rested so you are all charged and ready for happy times.:)