Inspired by the words of others and my own beautiful memories I began to paint. I painted to music --some of Todd's favorite country music and spiritual music that Todd's brother, Glenn prepared for me. 

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In one years time, I painted twenty-one canvases in oil.  The first 17 were shown in a two month exhibit beginning on the first year anniversary of Todd’s death. It was held at his alma mater, The College of William & Mary, in the campus' Muscarelle Museum of Art, Sadler Center Annex. After the exhibit, I began to discuss with the Muscarelle the idea of creating a book which would showcase the paintings and explain why I painted each canvas.

 

What emerged was a book of art with narrative essays by myself and by ten other contributors, some who knew Todd in his life, and others who came to know him after he was killed.  While painting this series and with God’s grace, I was allowed the time to learn how to navigate my new state of being. As a mother, artist, and author, I understand how a particular journey can help us understand the larger experience of being human. I hope others will find inspiration and encouragement in my book.