Kisses for Baci

Baci
Commission, oil on canvas, 12x12

Baci, according to the woman who hired me to make this painting, means "kisses" in Italian. And Baci gave and received, for years and years.

Baci is dead now, but lived a long and joyful life, according to Samantha. The big dog - an English mastiff - was always with Samantha, and when she and her husband had a child, Baci loved and guarded the baby, as well.

I know, when an animal enters my life, that chances are I will outlive it. I know that my welcome, my warming heart, my open door, let pain and loss in, along with all that love.

I would not trade one moment's awful grief for one moment's pure and loving joy.