Almost a year

I was reminded the other day that Michael has been gone from this earth for a year next month. Sometimes, for me, it seems like he never left his earthly home because I’m pretty sure that I hear his voice every day… “move that over just a smidge, please…that’s better, thank you” … and I am immersed in his artwork all of the time, placing designs in mats for those who request them, talking to long time followers that call to express their sadness at learning of his passing and conveying to me what his work meant to them. Often my customers go to great lengths to find me, searching the internet, calling others that may know how to find the work and upon making contact, emit a sigh of relief when the connection is made. 

“I was given a St. Paul Love when I was married 40 years ago and I want my daughter and new son in law to have the same thing. It means so much to me to give it to them and I am so grateful to have found you.” 

I spoke to a gentleman earlier in the year that was on a mission to provide his great grandson, one month old, with Michael’s version of Kipling’s “If ”. He had gifted his three sons and later five grandsons each with the piece and mentioned that he was afraid he wouldn’t be around to give it to the newest boy in the family and so he wanted to “get a jump on things”. He then told me, “The grandboys will have to pick up the slack now. I’m passing all of your information to them and I am leaving them with strict orders”, he said laughing, but sounding a little serious as well.

I could relay so many stories of generations of people contacting me to continue gifting their loved ones with Michael’s work and spreading his legacy throughout. It is most enjoyable for me to listen, to converse and of course to do business with those who appreciate the message and the beauty of each presentation. 

Thank you again, Michael, for sharing your talent. Thank you for the opportunity to get up every day and provide your unique and beautiful artwork for those who feel the need to inspire, encourage or provide comfort to those that they love. 

Drive carefully.