Most artists have someone who inspired them to pick up a paintbrush. My inspiration is a lovely artist named Kelly Rae Roberts. In 2007 I was a 47 year old mom to a wonderful teenage daughter, wife to a great guy, and I was suddenly told I had Parkinson’s Disease. My life was instantly turned upside-down and I was scared to death.

I initially began to garden to lift my spirits, which led to photography, which eventually led to my true passion, which is painting. One day while reading an article in Cloth, Paper, Scissors, I came across an article on a young artist named Kelly Rae Roberts. I was immediately enthralled with this sweet gal’s artwork. The tender and soulful messages she placed on her paintings stole my heart. I loved her use of collage and color and how she added messages of hope. I soon began to follow her blog and became very impressed with Kelly Rae’s warm down to earth personality.

I still follow her to this day, and continue to find her journey inspirational and hopeful. A few months ago I responded to a comment request on one her postings. I couldn’t pass up an opportunity to possibly win a trip with Ms. KRR’s herself! Well, I didn’t win the grand prize, however I was thrilled and totally surprised to find out that I actually won second place! Sort of a dream come true for me. I still hope to one day meet Kelly Rae and thank her in person for helping me find my smile again.

Thought you might enjoy seeing what I won, along with the posting from KKR’s blog. I just adore my amazingly cool prizes! Take a peek at part of Kelly Rae’s post on June 29, 2011:

Giveaway winners!!!

Okay, you guys, this was so fun….below are the thirteen winners to last week’s giveaways. All winners were chosen randomly by me except for the all expense paid trip. Because Demdaco is graciously sponsoring that trip, they did the honors of choosing a winner. They had a hard time choosing just one winner so they chose one winner for the trip and four other winners to receive a box of Kelly Rae products! Thank you, Demdaco, for your generosity!

Winners from Demdaco Appreciation Week

All expense paid trip with me + original painting:
Jackie who said “Happy Birthday!! What an amazing giveaway. I would love a chance to hang out with you and do art! Passions are a funny thing, sometimes lost, but if they are truly in your heart they will emerge and grow. A few years ago I had my designs stolen from a licensing company, it crushed my passion, but through failure and hurt I have re-emerged and started creating again, even teaching, this would mean so much to me and be a testiment to follow your heart! Your a true inspiration, many wishes on your day today Smiles, Jackie”

Bonus winner #1 to receive a box of Kelly Rae product from Demdaco: Cindy DeLuz who said, “Oh my…Here goes: KRR has been an inspirational rae of light for me for nearly 5 years now. Soon after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease in 2007, I unexpectedly came across a blog written by a sweet gal who had dancing eyes. This talented young woman exposed her tender heart with her beautifully written words and pastel colored images. She wrote about vulnerability, a boy named John, an airplane eared pooch, and dreams come true. She unknowingly brought new meaning to my life as she openly shared her world. It’s almost impossible to put into words what winning this trip would mean to me. It would be a poignant piece for my rather upside-down life puzzle. It would also remind my 16 yr.old daughter that dreams do come true. I would love the opportunity to hug and thank Kelly Rae Roberts in person. It would be a highlight in my life, blissfully surreal. So in true KRR style, I continue to listen to my heart whispers while trusting in the journey.”

I LOVE this canvas! This is hanging in my living room.

A very cool travel mug....even though I use it when I'm not on the go. Perfect for my hot cocoa when I'm working in the studio. The word "Believe" is perfect, reminds me to keep dreaming of the long awaited cure.

This is my favorite! A beautiful journal featuring one of KRR's lovely ladies. The blank pages are made of the yummiest soft paper. The page markers are pastel velvet ribbons...really!

Oh gosh I love this too! This adorable flat acrylic statue hangs above my art table where it inspires me everyday. It also came with a darling stand too.