Hawaii is full of friendly and understanding people. My friend Kristina is one of those people. So when she reminded me of a small debt involving a washer/dryer, I thought it was cool that she wanted a painting instead of monetary compensation. I decided to go with this fun 10"x20" shape. Kristina's favorite birds are the 'Apapanes and I thought it would be perfect to have the ALOHA sign in a plumeria tree. The results are awesome. I love this painting and I'm happy to finally deliver on a forgotten deal we made.

This little sweetness is a Black-Capped Chickadee. Sadly, we do not have chickadees in Hawaii, but they are found all over the mainland US. There are a few different types of chickadees and you can decipher the difference from the coloring of their backs, flanks and head markings. Sweetness just wants to be loved. All puffed up and ready to cuddle:)

The song came first for this painting.

I thought it would be odd if I inserted an apple pie in the sky, so I went with the blue butterfly instead. My little fledgling bluebird is looking longingly up at this mature butterfly, wishing he was able to fly as well. For now, he may have to hop around a bit and practice. But before long I see this bluebird really soaring! Sometimes you have to be just a little patient but determination pays off!

I made this painting special for my friend Johanna. For Christmas she gave me a great book with the official bird and flower of each state. I thought it would be fun to make a painting featuring the bird and plant of her state, Nevada. So here they are: the Mountain Bluebird and Sagebrush. Johanna does not shy from color either, so I went with a bright pink background to make the bluebird really pop! And of course her birthday isn't for another month, but I just couldn't wait!

Happy early early bday Johanna!!

Anuenue is Hawaiian for "rainbow". In the Hawaiian culture, the rainbow is a symbol of strength, wisdom and beauty. There are meles that describe the rainbow as a pathway or transport for the Gods to come down to Earth and for souls to rise up.

My little 'Apapane pair are in awe. The 'Apapane is known for their singing. The male sings to woo a female and continues singing to her throughout the year. How romantic:)

The Java Sparrows are out in full force today, hovering around my seed feeders. My cat is going berserko watching them from within the house. Javas are really fun to watch. They hop all over in their casual chic tuxedos and bright white cheeks.

These two are sharing a little kiss in a lush oasis of red hibiscus.

After "More To Love", I was commissioned to make two fatties together, yay!

These two are bundles of fluff and feathers! A joy to create for Deb:)

The Birdette was created with idea that one (or two) little fluffball is a simple, happy greeting from the bird world to us as observers of all amazing creations. What a wonderful world it is!

"L is for the way you look at me

O is for the only one I see

V is very, very extraordinary

E is even more than anyone that you adore can

LOVE was made for you and me" 😍

I think I'm keeping this one...

This painting was inspired by a request from my friend and client Karen who sends me lots of happy emails about my blog. She said this was one of her favorite songs, so I brought my spin to the song with a happy little yellow songbird. He looks so peaceful and full of joy with the sun shining down on him in a warm, soft light. I find my cat in a similar position each morning. I call her the sun-catcher, she always seems to find the patch of Heaven and basks in its glory. Just like this songbird, not a care in the world...