The story of the Aprons

I was over at Voodoo Cafe {as I often am} to check out what new in the land of creativity.  Rice (rhymes with Lisa) and I met several months ago and I have wanted to post about it but did not know how to approach it without sounding crazy!  You can see  Rice post  here.  

It was my first art retreat and I was nervous about being there by myself.  I saw Rice walking around all day in this fabolus apron. I actually ran out of my class 2 different times when I saw her in an attempt to read the apron.  Here I am "lurking" behind her to get a better look!!

 Then I got to touch it!!! It was so cool.  It is all hand stamped with a great face on the front and heart on the back.   She asked if It was something I wound wear and of course the answer was a resounding YES! And she gave it to me! I could not believe it.

 After I donned my new fab apron, we sat down to visit.  She was so endearing and charming.  I explained that it was my first art retreat and My goal was to become more connected with the art community. 

I explained that I almost did not come because I had to put my dear sweet Bell (my 14 year old cat) to sleep the day before the retreat.  Rice ran up to her room and came down with yet Another Faboulous apron with Kittys on it.  It is hand stamped with all the names of her cats.  It was such a sweet gesture.   my eyes were filled with tears as she handed it to me.  


In Rice's blog she simply tells the story of exchanging the aprons, what she did not tell you is how loving and compassionate she was while doing it.  I LOVE LOVE LOVE the first apron and have worn it to several art openings and events, but the Kitty apron holds a dear place in my heart.  

It silly to say "Art Heals"but when she handed me the kitty apron, I really felt warmth in my heart.  I believe in the power of art.  The power to communicate a belief, make a statement, tell a story, but most of all, connect with people.  I know that Rice was thinking of all her beloved animals when she stamped each of there names on that apron, and to be given such a precious handmade piece was so special.   


I still miss Bell kitty daily.  I rescued her from a trash bin outside a local restaurant 14 years ago and I must say it was the most painful decision I have had to make to put her to sleep, but Rice apron  and kind words were a blessed gift at a time of great sadness.  


I just want everyone to know that this is not just a story of exchanging art, but how art can connect people on a deep level,promote  healing and bring joy.  Isn't that what its all about? 
again Thank you Thank you Thank you Rice.