The mangoes are going crazy in my backyard and they are giving me lots of inspiration! 'Apapanes are usually found on higher ground where the lehua blossoms are plentiful and the air is refreshingly crisp. Today they decided to come down from the rainforest and swing like Tarzan and Jane on these candy-colored mangoes. Going in for a kiss was never more fun!

A year or so ago, I painted an adorable Westie with a butterfly on his nose. I had an itch to recreate that design with another dog and chose the Papillon. He's a perfect fit, especially with his large ears and fur tendrils that inspired the species' name (French for "butterfly").

My Papillon is intrigued and surprised to find a beautiful monarch delicately kisses to top of his wet nose. Some friendships blossom out of the most unexpected moments of tenderness.

A Warhol-inspired tetraptych of Birdettes!

The Birdette is a name I use for a little fat happy bird that seems to have alit in front of us for a brief hello. He is cute, endearing and always looking for someone to love (which sometimes makes his head tilt to the side). My Birdettes come in all different colors and varieties, bringing a little joy to everyone with whom he crosses paths.