After a fantastic event in February, I wondered how this March one would go… just as heartwarming? More friends from Paradise? Even more of the Butte Strong mindset and desire to support our neighbors? Yes, yes, and yes. Also ART bringing us all together… absolutely. I couldn’t make this happen without the decision each of these participants made to let a simple painting experience be a chance to invite healing and love into a regular old Wednesday night!

Thank you so much for contributing, attending, and savoring this time with a sensitivity for the various reasons painters might be here. When watching your faces as I introduce and get things rolling or walking around to help guide the session, one of the overwhelmingly evident pieces of this time is the compassion you all have for each other. No matter what impact the fire had on you or what you lost, your heart is towards the people around you, embracing them in their story, hoping to grieve with them or laugh with them or just give a hug that says, “You’re amazing. I’m glad you’re here.”

To all the lovely people I got to meet tonight, you are brave, resilient and creative! Hoping you felt this message from the people you came with and from my heart too, “You’re amazing. I’m glad you’re here.”