Thursday, January 5, 2012

Beautiful Boy

Boris (aka "Bo Bo")
Christmas 2011
Painted by Helyn Raymond


I wanted to end the year - or begin a new one - by posting the magnificent portrait that one of my skating companions, Helyn Raymond, did of our wonderful Samoyed, Boris, who we lovingly call "Bo Bo."


Before Christmas 2010, I had asked Helyn to paint our 14 year old Collie, Merlin because I knew we would not have him much longer. He went to The Rainbow Bridge in March 2011. Sadly, Helyn was not able to do that so I had another artist paint Merlin in oils. 


Helyn approached me just before Christmas and asked about painting Boris. Bingo! I finally had the perfect gift for DH, who is impossible to shop for. He himself admits that he has everything he could possibly want. 


Sent Helyn some photos of Bo Bo. She picked the perfect shot, as well as the one I wanted her to use, but didn't indicate because I wanted her to select the best one for a painting. 


When Helyn delivered the finished product, I was completely, utterly awe-struck. She captured the very essence and soul of our little line backer (as we lovingly call him because of his build and the way he, walks, resembling Bill Sykes's dog in the musical, Oliver!). 


We have paintings of our previous pups, Winston, Henry and Merlin. Two are oils and one is watercolor. While every painting is absolutely gorgeous, I have a particular fondness for the water colors and - truth be told - an overwhelming fondness for Boris's portrait. Helyn managed to get the color of his eyes perfect as well as that unique Sammie look that makes you just want to throw your arms around him in a massive hug.


We wrapped up the year by becoming a registered therapy team with Therapy Dogs, Inc. We are now visiting hospitals and other health care/residential facilities for seniors. I am so proud of the way Boris has taken to his 'job' as a therapy dog. He is wonderful in the hospital, being exceptionally well-behaved. He delights patients, visitors, and staff wherever he goes. 


We know Boris was sent by Merlin to heal our hearts after we lost our special boy last March. Not only has Boris helped us deal with our profound grief resulting from a life without Merlin, he has shown us that life goes on and you can open your heart and love another doggie. Bless you, Merlin, for being so wise, loving and compassion. We miss you desperately, but know you are waiting for us at The Rainbow Bridge. 

Merlin Lancelot
At The Rainbow Bridge
by Linda Primmer, Auburn, CA 

4 comments:

  1. Hi Karen, finally I can leave a comment.
    The picture of your Beautiful Boy, Boris is just lovely. He is so handsome. I hope to meet him one day. How special that you know someone who can capture the very essence of your "Bo Bo".
    Thanks again for the mention on Merlin's photo.
    He was quite handsome and I am sure he has a place in your hearts forever. Hugs and XOXO Linda

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  2. Dear Linda, thanks so much for leaving your comment. You did such a magnificent job creating Merlin at The Rainbow Bridge. We are so grateful to you. Boris is a wonderful dog and feel so blessed to have him in our lives. He is also a big clown so he provides many joyful, fun-filled hours.

    It was sweet seeing your girls at clogging practice. Such pretty, feminine dogs, too.

    Hugs, Karen

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  3. Wonderful picture of Boris----Helyn is so talented. Hope you & Ken are doing well, and looks like you are having fun with Aitch.....

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  4. Where have you been? I've been carrying around my thank you note ever since Christmas! Hugs, K :-)

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